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| Guan Xiaotong Lines Up Six Major Dramas Set to Dominate Chinese Screens in 2026 (Photo: Guan Xiao Tong Studio/Weibo) |
Guan Xiaotong is shining brighter than ever as China’s entertainment scene heads towards a new chapter. Born on 17 September 1997, the Beijing-native actress has steadily grown from a beloved child star into one of the most bankable faces of her generation. Known for her natural charisma and ability to switch between modern romance, youth stories, historical narratives and even sci-fi, Guan Xiao Tong is clearly entering her most mature acting phase yet.
With 2025 approaching its final stretch, all eyes are now on 2026 — a year that could well define her next career peak. The actress is currently linked to six Chinese dramas either in production or preparing for release, each showcasing a different side of her range. From grounded family stories to large-scale historical productions, Guan Xiaotong’s upcoming slate feels deliberate, ambitious and refreshingly varied.
Before diving into the titles, it’s worth remembering her roots. Guan Xiaotong comes from a well-known artistic family — her father Guan Shao Zeng was an actor, while her grandfather Guan Xue Zeng founded Beijing Qinshu.
She made her screen debut at just four years old and later topped both the practical and written sections of the national college entrance exams before entering the Beijing Film Academy. Often referred to as China’s “Nation’s Daughter”, she also belongs to the recognised “Post-90s Four Dan Actresses” alongside Zhou Dongyu, Yang Zi and Zheng Shuang.
Upcoming Guan Xiaotong Dramas to Watch in 2026
Now, let’s break down what fans can expect from her 2026 drama lineup.
Liao Bu Qi De Wo Men (了不起的我们)
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Episodes: 39–40
Platform: CCTV
Genre: Contemporary drama
This CCTV original leans into grounded storytelling, focusing on ordinary people navigating life’s turning points. Led by Guan Xiaotong and veteran performer Yu Qian, Liao Bu Qi De Wo Men places emotional realism front and centre.
What to expect:
This drama is likely to highlight Guan’s calmer, more restrained acting style. Rather than high-concept drama twists, expect layered family dynamics, generational viewpoints and subtle emotional payoffs. It’s the kind of project that often resonates strongly with older viewers while helping younger audiences connect with real-world struggles.
In My Prime (生逢其时)
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Episodes: 30
Platform: iQIYI
Genre: Period family drama
Set in a small town during the 1980s, In My Prime explores identity, fate and family bonds through the lives of two children whose paths are unexpectedly altered.
Guan Xiaotong plays Qi Shi, a brave girl living with albinism, while Wang Ziqi stars as Cao Xin, the seemingly “perfect” child admired by all.
What to expect:
This project feels like an acting-driven drama. Guan’s role requires emotional depth rather than glamour, and the story offers strong social context tied to changing values in 1980s China. Expect quiet heartbreak, resilience and strong performances rather than fast-paced romance.
Our Dazzling Days (烟花少年)
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Episodes: 35
Platform: iQIYI
Genre: Youth, career, hometown revival
Starring Huang Jingyu, Guan Xiaotong, Xu Ruohan and Wang Tiancheng, this drama follows three childhood friends who part ways to pursue education and careers — only to reunite years later with a shared goal of rebuilding their hometown.
What to expect:
This is nostalgia with purpose. The drama blends coming-of-age themes with adult responsibility, focusing on growth, friendship and contribution to society. Guan Xiaotong’s role is expected to balance warmth and maturity, reflecting the realities of returning home after chasing dreams elsewhere.
Dazzling (耀眼)
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Episodes: 36
Platform: Mango TV
Genre: Youth romance, growth
Already wrapped filming, Dazzling tells the story of Ye Qing, a girl forced to relocate after family misfortune.
Her unexpected connection with Wu Xing leads both characters to face personal turning points. The setting — sharing a room separated only by a thin curtain — symbolises how close yet different their worlds are.
What to expect:
This is classic youth drama done with polish. Expect emotional tension, quiet romance and character growth rather than over-the-top drama. Guan Xiaotong’s performance here is expected to feel introspective and emotionally layered, marking a shift away from purely youthful roles.
Founding of the Republic (建国大业) — TV Series
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Episodes: 30
Genre: Historical, political
The television adaptation of Founding of the Republic brings a grand historical narrative to the small screen, covering key events leading up to the establishment of modern China. Guan Xiaotong joins an ensemble cast that spans multiple generations of actors.
What to expect:
This is a prestige project. Guan’s role may not centre on romance, but rather on historical atmosphere and collective storytelling. Participation alone signals industry recognition, placing her firmly within serious, large-scale productions.
A Panorama of Rivers and Mountains (千里江山图)
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Platform: Tencent Video
Genre: Historical, espionage, romance
Inspired by the iconic Song Dynasty painting A Panorama of Rivers and Mountains, this drama combines art, history and political intrigue. Guan Xiaotong plays Dong Huiwen, a character believed to share a deep emotional bond with the male lead and whose sacrifices leave a lasting impact.
What to expect:
Visually rich and emotionally intense, this project leans towards artistic storytelling. Expect stunning cinematography, layered symbolism and restrained romance. Guan’s past experience in historical roles makes this one of the most anticipated dramas in her lineup.
Excited?
From intimate family stories to epic historical productions, Guan Xiaotong’s 2026 drama slate reflects careful career positioning rather than quantity alone. Each project taps into a different emotional register, signalling her transition into more complex and lasting roles.
So, are you excited? Which of these dramas are you most looking forward to?
More updates are expected as broadcast plans continue to evolve — and if this lineup is any indication, 2026 could be a defining year for Guan Xiaotong on screen.