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| Record-Breaking Romance: Shine on Me Redefines Modern Love on Screen (Photo: Tencent) |
The urban romance drama Shine on Me (骄阳似我) is proving to be one of 2025’s standout TV hits. Since its premiere, the series has taken off at remarkable speed, quickly becoming a favourite among romance drama fans. Led by Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai, the show has created serious buzz online and achieved record-breaking results on Tencent Video, where its popularity index soared past 27,097 — the fastest a modern romance drama has crossed the 27,000 mark this year.
Adapted from a novel by bestselling author Gu Man, who also wrote the screenplay, Shine on Me blends familiar romantic warmth with a more grounded, contemporary edge.
Produced by Xixi Pictures alongside Tencent Video, the drama has consistently climbed trending charts, fuelled by its sweet yet mature tone, a cool-headed male lead, and the natural chemistry between its two stars.
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At the heart of the story is Nie Xiguang, played by Zhao Jinmai, a young woman born into wealth who deliberately keeps her background hidden as she starts her career from the bottom of her father’s company.
Her past includes an unfulfilled university crush, a quiet chapter that shapes her early outlook on love.
After graduation, her path crosses with Lin Yusen, portrayed by Song Weilong — a newly appointed vice president known for his sharp standards, emotional distance and no-nonsense work style.
Their relationship begins on the wrong foot due to a misunderstanding, leading to tense interactions and workplace friction.
Tencent’s modern romance drama #ShineOnMe, based on Gu Man’s Blazing Sunlight, starring Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai, w/ sp lead Lin Yilun, + Lai Weiming, Bai Bingke, Fan Shiran, Gu Zicheng & more, releases new poster and trailer for Tencent Video 2025 Preview Party#骄阳似我 pic.twitter.com/9IB16MWSpC
— cdrama tweets (@dramapotatoe) June 23, 2025
Over time, however, Lin Yusen is drawn to Nie Xiguang’s resilience, sincerity and sense of self. Through his honest and steady pursuit, she begins to reassess what love truly means to her. What starts as conflict slowly develops into a partnership built on trust, mutual respect and emotional clarity.
One of the drama’s biggest talking points is its portrayal of a healthy, modern relationship. Rather than controlling or rescuing one another, the couple supports each other’s growth.
Lin Yusen offers guidance without overstepping, while Nie Xiguang provides warmth and emotional grounding without losing her independence.
Their bond reflects what many viewers describe as “clear-minded love” — a relationship that encourages self-worth, communication and balance instead of emotional burnout.
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Visually, the drama has sparked discussion as well. Some viewers felt Zhao Jinmai’s styling leaned more mature than expected for a youthful romance, despite featuring luxury fashion brands.
Others praised the choice, saying it perfectly reflects Nie Xiguang’s practical, grounded personality. Meanwhile, the visual chemistry between the two leads has been widely applauded and remains one of the show’s strongest draws.
Beyond romance, Shine on Me also weaves in themes of career choice, personal growth and social responsibility.
His favourite thing during the whole trip was showing off his new phone case to strangers🤣🤣#ShineOnMe #SongWeilong #ZhaoJinmai #cdrama pic.twitter.com/oML44td4gp
— chocopop (@crazyslayyy) December 27, 2025
By placing its characters within emerging industries and professional challenges, the drama highlights the idea that fulfilment comes from aligning personal strengths with wider social needs — a message that resonates strongly with younger audiences navigating similar questions in real life.
Another point worth noting is the show’s growing momentum on rating platforms.
With no major urban romance dramas airing at the same time, Shine on Me currently faces little direct competition, giving it room to stand out on its own merits.
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As more viewers tune in and discussions continue to build, many fans believe its Douban rating is likely to rise steadily, reflecting both its strong storytelling and its positive word-of-mouth among audiences looking for a warm yet realistic love story.
So, what do you think — is Shine on Me redefining what a modern romance drama should look like? Do you see your own experiences reflected in Nie Xiguang and Lin Yusen’s journey?