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| Li Yitong Expands Her Acting Range With Seven New Dramas in 2026 (Photo: LiYitong Studio/Weibo) |
Chinese actress Li Yitong is stepping into 2026 with serious momentum. As one of China’s most dependable leading actresses, she’s quietly built a reputation for versatility rather than noise — and her upcoming C-drama slate proves she’s far from playing it safe.
Born on 6 September 1990 in Jinan, Shandong, Li Yitong trained professionally at the Beijing Dance Academy, majoring in Chinese folk dance. Before acting took over her life, she was even preparing to open a dance-themed teahouse — until a short film project changed everything. That detour led her to land her debut role in Demon Girl, followed by nationwide recognition through The Legend of the Condor Heroes.
Fast-forward to now, and Li Yitong is entering a noticeably more mature phase of her career. With seven dramas either in production or preparing for release, 2026 is shaping up to be her busiest — and boldest — year yet. From political wuxia and palace intrigue to fantasy romance and modern psychological mystery, each project shows a different shade of her evolving screen presence.
Full List of Li Yitong’s Upcoming Dramas Set to Premiere in 2026
Below is a full look at what viewers can expect from Li Yitong’s upcoming 2026 dramas.
Hero Legends (英雄志)
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Genre: Wuxia, War, Political Drama
Episodes: 40
Platform: Tencent Video
Expected Release: 2026
One of the most ambitious wuxia projects currently in the pipeline, Hero Legends adapts Sun Xiao’s classic novel Ying Xiong Zhi. Directed by Yang Wen Jun, the series brings together a heavyweight cast including Xiao Shunyao, Zheng Yecheng, Cheng Yi, with Li Yitong playing a key central role.
Set against a backdrop of political turmoil and military intrigue, the story follows three very different men — a scholar with ideals, a betrayed warrior, and a truth-driven military investigator — whose lives collide after a shocking accusation shakes the empire.
Expect layered storytelling, large-scale production, and morally complex characters. For Li Yitong, this project highlights her growing presence in serious, high-stakes narratives.
The Vanishing Beauty (美人余)
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Genre: Historical, Romance, Mystery
Episodes: 28
Platform: Tencent Video
Expected Release: 2026 (TBA)
In The Vanishing Beauty, Li Yitong takes on the role of Yu Xuan, a noblewoman gifted with the ability to glimpse shadows of the past.
Tasked with resolving clan disputes within the imperial court, her mission slowly unravels hidden family secrets and dangerous political games.
Adapted from Yi Bei’s novel Mei Ren Yu, this drama leans into emotional restraint rather than spectacle. The story blends quiet romance with betrayal and self-discovery, allowing Li Yitong to explore vulnerability, intelligence, and inner strength in a character shaped by secrets rather than power.
The Legend of Rosy Clouds (云秀行)
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Genre: Comedy, Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
Episodes: 36
Platform: iQIYI
Expected Release: Early 2026
Adapted from the Japanese novel series Saiunkoku Monogatari, this drama offers a lighter yet meaningful take on court politics. Li Yitong stars as Fan Yun, a noble-born woman living in poverty who dreams of becoming the kingdom’s first female official.
Opposite Zeng Shunxi’s reluctant emperor, the story balances humour, romance, and political reform.
Directed by Zhu Shao Jie, The Legend of Rosy Clouds focuses on social barriers, gender roles, and personal ambition, giving Li Yitong a role that blends charm with quiet determination.
Du Xin Jue (渡心诀)
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Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
Platform: iQIYI
Expected Release: Late 2026
Adapted from a story by popular author Jiu Lu Fei Xiang, Du Xin Jue dives into spiritual conflict and self-awakening.
Li Yitong leads as the central female character in a tale about an immortal cultivator who returns to the mortal world after failing ascension.
Rather than action-heavy spectacle, the drama leans into emotional reflection, moral responsibility, and the cost of enlightenment. This project positions Li Yitong in a more introspective fantasy role, focusing on emotional depth over traditional heroics.
Gu Le Feng Hua Lu (古乐风华录)
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Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy, Music
Episodes: 40
Platform: Tencent Video
Expected Release: Q3–Q4 2026
One of the more visually unique entries on the list, Gu Le Feng Hua Lu combines xianxia storytelling with musical mythology. Li Yitong stars as Yue Yangyang, a musician whose life changes after encountering Shao Yi, a mysterious music spirit with lost memories.
As love grows between them, misunderstandings and destiny-driven conflicts threaten both their relationship and the sacred music world they’re sworn to protect.
With an experienced visual effects team and a strong focus on sound and atmosphere, this drama promises a different kind of fantasy experience.
A Prophet (长风起)
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Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Drama
Episodes: 24
Platform: iQIYI & Tencent Video
Expected Release: Q2–Q3 2026
Starring Li Xian alongside Li Yitong, A Prophet leans into psychological tension and fate-driven storytelling. Li Yitong plays Jiang Feiyan, a character deeply entwined in a chain of tragic events triggered by a cryptic prophecy.
As secrets unravel and loyalties blur, the drama explores whether destiny can truly be escaped — or merely delayed. Directed by Yang Lei, this series is expected to deliver tight pacing, strong performances, and layered character motivations.
Zhao Ge (朝歌)
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Genre: Romance, Wuxia, Fantasy
Episodes: 50
Platform: iQIYI
Expected Release: Q4 2026
Set during the fall of the Shang Dynasty, Zhao Ge is a large-scale mythological epic. Li Yitong plays Hu Xian’er, a nine-tailed fox spirit, alongside Zhang Zhehan and Wu Jinyan.
With themes of power, rebellion, love, and transformation, the series promises grand visuals and dramatic storytelling. Backed by veteran producers and writers known for historical fantasy, Zhao Ge positions Li Yitong in one of her most visually striking roles to date.
What to Expect from Li Yitong in 2026?
Across these seven projects, one thing is clear: Li Yitong is deliberately expanding her range. Her upcoming roles lean towards emotionally layered women navigating power, belief, and identity — not just romance-led narratives.
More updates are expected as broadcast schedules are confirmed, and as always, plans remain subject to change.