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| Cheng Yi 2026 Projects Breakdown: New Roles, Big Productions and Release Windows (Photo: Weibo) |
Chinese actor Cheng Yi is walking into 2026 with serious momentum. After a consistently strong 2025 that proved his staying power across genres, the actor is now lining up three very different dramas that show just how far he has evolved. From grand wuxia ideals to turbulent historical change and high-stakes dynasty survival, his upcoming projects aren’t just about scale — they’re about range.
If 2025 cemented his popularity, 2026 looks ready to stretch his acting depth even further. Widely recognised for his calm charisma and emotional control, Cheng Yi has built a reputation for choosing roles that challenge him rather than playing it safe.
All Cheng Yi Upcoming Chinese Dramas in 2026
With these new dramas currently in production or preparing for broadcast, fans are already counting down to what could be one of his most defining years yet.
Hero Legends (英雄志)
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Hero Legends positions Cheng Yi right in the heart of a sweeping wuxia war and political narrative. Adapted from Sun Xiao’s novel Ying Xiong Zhi, the drama unfolds through a mysterious sheepskin scroll that pulls multiple heroes into a complex web of fate, loyalty and personal belief.
Cheng Yi’s role is expected to lean heavily into moral conflict, with a character forced to navigate love, hatred and national duty at the same time.
Starring alongside Wang Qianyuan, Li Yitong, Xiao Shunyao and Zheng Yecheng, the ensemble cast brings weight and balance to the story, suggesting layered character dynamics rather than one-dimensional heroism.
Directed by Vincent Yang and produced as a Tencent Video original, the 40-episode series is planned for release between Q2 and Q3 of 2026. Viewers can expect intense action, strategic mind games and a slower-burning emotional core that suits Cheng Yi’s restrained acting style.
Ai Zai Feng Qi Yun Yong Shi (爱在风起云涌时, English title TBA)
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This historical life melodrama takes a sharp turn from fantasy into realism, focusing on personal growth during one of China’s most transformative periods.
Vheng Yi stars as Li Pei Jun, an orphan raised in hardship who becomes deeply entangled in political upheaval and personal loss. The drama charts his journey from street life in Guangzhou to becoming a figure shaped by revolution, belief and sacrifice.
Co-starring veteran actress Sheren Tang Shuiman and Yin Zheng, the drama promises strong intergenerational performances and emotionally grounded storytelling.
Directed by Cha Chuen Yee, the 42-episode series is scheduled for a late 2026 release. What sets this project apart is its focus on inner change rather than spectacle, giving Cheng Yi space to portray maturity, restraint and emotional evolution across time.
Liang Jing Shi Wu Ri (两京十五日, English title TBA)
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For viewers who love urgency and tension, Liang Jing Shi Wu Ri brings a historical thriller edge to Cheng Yi’s 2026 slate. Set during the early Hongxi era of the Ming Dynasty, the story follows Crown Prince Zhu Zhan Ji after a disaster triggers political chaos across Nanjing and Beijing.
With the emperor critically ill, the prince must survive a relentless 15-day journey covering over 1,100 kilometres to protect both himself and the dynasty.
Directed by Zhang Li and produced as an iQIYI original, the drama stars Cheng Yi alongside Jiang Peiyao, Lin Gengxin and Wu Xingjian.
Adapted from Ma Bo Yong’s novel, the series is expected to combine historical detail with fast-paced storytelling. Cheng Yi’s role here leans towards pressure-driven leadership, testing physical endurance, intelligence and emotional composure all at once.
With wuxia ideals, revolutionary change and dynasty survival all packed into one year, Cheng Yi’s 2026 drama line-up feels carefully curated rather than accidental.
Each project taps into a different strength, making it hard to pick just one standout. Which drama has caught your eye the most so far, and what kind of role do you think suits Cheng Yi best right now? More updates are on the way, and this list may still grow.