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| Zhou Yiran’s Surprise Casting in Tencent’s S+ Historical Drama Tigers Sniff the Rose Sparks Nostalgia |
The hype is real—Tencent Video’s latest S+ historical drama Tigers Sniff the Rose is finally official, and the cast list is nothing short of stacked. Fans are buzzing as the series brings back fan-fave pairing Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui in their second onscreen collaboration… and now, the surprise addition of Zhou Yiran is stirring up even more nostalgia online!
Backed by New Classics Media and adapted from the well-loved novel by Yiren Kuikui, this drama promises a mix of high-stakes politics, old-school romance, and some serious Tang-Song dynasty aesthetics. It’s helmed by director Qin Zhen, with a cinematic score by Yang Bingyin, and yep—filming’s already underway in Ningbo, Zhejiang.
💥 Plot Vibes: Intrigue, Blood, and Courtroom Romance
Leading the show is Meng Ziyi as Mu Wanyao, a once-proud noble lady forced into a political marriage. But don’t let the dainty past fool you—this one’s on a full revenge arc after her family’s brutal downfall. Expect strategic moves, court drama, and a full glow-up into a shrewd, fierce heroine with her eye on justice.
Starring opposite her is Li Yunrui as Yan Shang, a calm and noble Prime Minister from humble beginnings. Son of a disgraced official, he’s risen to power not with brute force, but sheer intellect and iron resolve. Together, they navigate the muddy waters of politics, love, and national duty—Chang’an style.
🧡 Zhou Yiran’s Entry: The Nostalgia is Real
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Zhou Yiran’s name on the updated cast list had fans doing a double-take. While details on his role are still hush-hush, the mere fact that he’s joining the same project with Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui has sparked major nostalgic vibes. Long-time viewers can’t help but hope for meaningful screentime—or even a triangle twist?
Also featured in the expanded cast are:
✨ Quan Yilun
✨ Wu Hankun
✨ Shen Jiayu
✨ Yu Chengen
✨ Liu Duanduan
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With this kind of ensemble, we’re expecting layered characters and juicy subplots. Court politics, anyone?
🎬 Production Details: Where Romance Meets Dynasty Vibes
Shot in Ningbo, the set design draws heavy inspo from Tang and Song Dynasty architecture, mixed with misty Lingnan-style atmosphere and Chang’an palace grandeur. Basically, expect breathtaking visuals alongside the emotional warfare.
On Weibo, both Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui dropped the official cast announcement with the caption:
“Fighting injustice together, keeping the homeland safe.”
…and of course, they tagged each other. Cute and fierce? Yes please.
🗣️ Fans Already Losing It
The moment Zhou Yiran’s name hit the list, the comments section exploded.
“Wait—is this a reunion? Give us a flashback scene PLEASE,” one fan begged.
Others are already building theories: “I bet Zhou’s character is either tragic or secretly the mastermind.”
TL;DR
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Tigers Sniff the Rose is Tencent’s new S+ historical drama starring Meng Ziyi, Li Yunrui, and now Zhou Yiran.
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It's based on Yiren Kuikui’s novel, directed by Qin Zhen, and filmed in Tang-Song dynasty style.
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The plot mixes revenge, political marriage, and honour-bound love stories in a misty palace setting.
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Zhou Yiran’s addition to the cast has fans hyped for an emotional reunion and surprise character arcs.