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| Bao Shangen Confirms Five Upcoming Chinese Dramas Set to Premiere in 2026 (Photo: Weibo/Bao Shang En) |
Bao Shangen, also known internationally as Ivy Bao Shang’En (包上恩), is clearly stepping into a new phase of her career — and 2026 is shaping up to be her busiest year yet. The rising Chinese actress is officially attached to five upcoming c-dramas, all either completed or in advanced stages of production, with premieres scheduled throughout next year.
Born on 23 May 2002 in Guangdong, Bao Shangen has quickly built a reputation for her calm charisma and impressive emotional range. From historical roles to modern youth stories and large-scale fantasy worlds, she’s proving she’s not keen on being boxed into one genre. As 2025 edges towards its end, her 2026 slate signals a confident move into more mature, layered characters.
For newer fans, Bao Shangen studied at the Communication University of Zhejiang and first drew attention after appearing in the acting reality show Ace Actress in 2021. Her official drama debut came in 2022 with Love Behind the Melody, and since then, her momentum has been steady — and now unmistakably strong.
Bao Shangen’s 2026 Drama Line-Up Is Seriously Impressive
1. In the Moonlight (月明千里)
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Platform: Tencent Video
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Episodes: 40
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Genre: Historical Romance
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Starring: Bao Shangen, Wang Hongyi
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Planned Release: Q1–Q2 2026
In the Moonlight is currently the closest to broadcast, with filming already wrapped and distribution approval underway. The drama is adapted from Luo Qingmei’s novel Yue Ming Qian Li and leans heavily into poetic romance set against a desert-like, foreign kingdom backdrop.
Bao Shangen plays Li Yao Ying, a princess sent away through a forced political marriage.
Her fate changes when she crosses paths with the reserved Sultan Gu — also known as Luo Jia — a man devoted to the gods and distant from worldly affairs. What begins as survival slowly grows into a deep, fated bond beneath the desert moon.
Expect sweeping visuals, restrained yet powerful romance, and a heroine who evolves from vulnerability into quiet strength. This role highlights Bao Shangen’s ability to carry emotional weight without excessive dialogue — something she’s becoming known for.
2. Never-Ending Summer (炽夏)
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Platform: Mango TV
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Episodes: 24
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Genre: Youth Romance
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Starring: Bao Shangen, Zhou Keyu (Daniel Zhou)
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Planned Release: Late 2026
Shifting gears entirely, Never-Ending Summer brings Bao Shangen back into a modern, youthful setting. Adapted from the web novel Zhui Luo by Tian Cu Yu, this drama focuses on first love, emotional growth, and the quiet intensity of adolescence.
Bao Shangen stars as Zhou Wan, an introverted student whose carefully guarded world slowly opens after meeting Lu Xi Xiao, a popular yet rebellious classmate.
Their relationship unfolds gently, built on shared moments rather than dramatic twists.
This project allows Bao Shangen to showcase her softer, more expressive acting style. It’s a coming-of-age story that feels warm, relatable, and emotionally grounded — ideal for viewers who enjoy slower, character-driven romances.
3. Generation to Generation (江湖夜雨十年灯)
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Platform: Tencent Video
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Episodes: 40
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Genre: Wuxia, Fantasy, Mystery Romance
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Starring: Bao Shangen, Zhou Yiran
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Planned Release: 2026
Arguably one of her most challenging roles to date, Generation to Generation places Bao Shangen in a morally complex wuxia universe. Adapted from Guan Xin Ze Luan’s well-known novel, the drama blends martial arts, destiny, and emotional trauma.
She plays Cai Zhao, a free-spirited young woman forced into the Qingque Sect after being labelled a “witch” by fate. Her journey intertwines with Chang Ning, a man haunted by his family’s tragic past.
Together, they navigate conflicts between light and darkness, loyalty and survival.
This drama stands out for its layered female characterisation, and Cai Zhao is far from a passive heroine. Bao Shangen’s portrayal here is expected to highlight courage, emotional resilience, and internal conflict — marking a clear step up in complexity.
4. Chinese Paladin 5 Prequel (仙剑五前传)
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Platform: iQIYI
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Episodes: 40
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Genre: Romance, Wuxia Fantasy
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Starring: Bao Shangen, Zhao Jinmai, Zhang Haowei, Xing Fei
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Planned Release: Q3–Q4 2026
The legendary Chinese Paladin franchise returns with a highly anticipated prequel, and Bao Shangen’s inclusion is a major talking point.
Set during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms era, the story explores friendship, sacrifice, and destiny within the martial arts world.
While details about her character remain under wraps, it’s confirmed she plays a key emotional figure — gentle in nature but mentally strong, deeply influencing the journeys of the main characters.
Joining such a well-established IP is a significant milestone, and this project positions Bao Shangen firmly on the big-budget fantasy stage, exposing her to a wider and more diverse audience.
5. Hero Legends (英雄志)
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Platform: Tencent Video / WeTV
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Episodes: 40
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Genre: Wuxia, War, Political Drama
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Starring: Bao Shangen, Cheng Yi, Li Yitong, Zheng Yecheng, Estelle Chen Yihan
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Planned Release: 2026
For fans of classic wuxia storytelling, Hero Legends is shaping up to be a must-watch. Adapted from Sun Xiao’s novel Ying Xiong Zhi, the drama begins with a mysterious sheepskin scroll that draws heroes together into a storm of national conflict.
Bao Shangen portrays a crucial female figure whose decisions influence the course of the story.
Her character operates within a larger political and moral framework, offering a calmer yet commanding presence amid chaos.
This role leans into maturity, restraint, and quiet authority — further reinforcing the sense that Bao Shangen is transitioning into more serious, impactful parts.
What to Expect From Bao Shangen in 2026
Across these five projects, one thing is clear: Bao Shangen is no longer just a promising newcomer. Her 2026 drama line-up reflects thoughtful role selection, genre diversity, and a willingness to challenge herself.
From poetic historical romance and emotional youth drama to high-stakes wuxia and large-scale fantasy, she’s steadily building a career defined by versatility rather than speed.
More projects may still be announced, and release schedules remain subject to change — but for now, Bao Shangen’s 2026 is already looking packed, ambitious, and very exciting.
So, which one are you most curious about?