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| Same Billing? Wu Jinyan and Chen Zheyuan Set to Star in Power-Play Period Drama Yu Ting Yao |
Chinese stars Wu Jinyan and Chen Zheyuan have finally signed on to lead the upcoming historical drama Yu Ting Yao (official English title TBA), adapted from Jiang Shan Wei Pin by Xing Yan Yan. The project had been stalled for a while, not because of the script or schedule—but due to some behind-the-scenes tension over top billing.
Yep, you read that right. Word on the street was that Wu Jinyan’s agency, led by the ever-vocal Yu Zheng, insisted that Chen Zheyuan would take second billing beneath WuJinyan. That didn’t sit well with the drama’s investors, who reportedly wanted both leads to be on equal footing—same billing, same spotlight.
The whole back-and-forth ended up delaying production for a bit, with fans wondering if the show was going to happen at all. But finally, some good news landed. Wu Jinyan and Chen Zheyuan were both spotted at the Yu Ting Yao script reading session this week, confirming their involvement and giving the green light for filming to begin at last.
That said, there’s still no official word on how the billing situation’s actually been settled. For now, fans are just hoping their faves get fair treatment and a good storyline to work with. Judging by the source material, there's plenty of juicy drama to go around.
What’s Yu Ting Yao All About?
The story follows Meng Tinghui, the first woman in the fictional Daping Dynasty to enter the prestigious Hanlin Academy—a major feat in that world. Once an orphan left to fend for herself, Meng was rescued from death and grew up pouring all her energy into study. Her intelligence and bold thinking eventually catch the attention of the palace, leading her into court politics and a meteoric rise through the ranks.
But with great ambition comes major sacrifice. Tinghui becomes willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals—even if that means getting her hands dirty.
Opposite her is Ying Gua, a crown prince-turned-emperor known for rooting out corrupt officials and ruling with wisdom. The two start off as allies in politics, but their relationship grows into something deeper… and more dangerous.
She’s the brilliant female official with a stain on her record, and he’s the upright emperor with the world at his feet. Together, they’re powerful—but fate’s got other plans.
Fans of both actors were buzzing with excitement and relief across Weibo and Douyin after the script reading photos surfaced. While the billing drama still lingers in some fan discussions, most are just happy the show is finally moving forward.
Some comments include:
“Same billing or not, just let them act their hearts out! The story sounds amazing.”
“I’m only here for Chen Zheyuan in a robe, let’s be honest.”
“Glad Wu Jinyan is back to doing period dramas. Her aura suits palace politics.”
TL;DR – What You Need to Know
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Drama Title: Yu Ting Yao (御廷瑶)
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Starring: Wu Jinyan, Chen Zheyuan
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Based on: Jiang Shan Wei Pin by Xing Yan Yan
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Genre: Historical, political romance, costume drama
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Plot Vibe: Palace scheming meets star-crossed love, with a side of gender-bending ambition
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Production Status: Script reading completed, filming to follow