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| Script Change Rumours and Casting Debate Surround Bu Rang Jiang Shan. (Photo: Weibo) |
Filming for Bu Rang Jiang Shan (不让江山) has officially begun, but instead of pure celebration, the launch has been met with heated debate and visible fan concern. The highly anticipated male-centric costume drama marks Yang Yang’s return to set after a filming break, yet even before cameras properly roll, online discussions have exploded over script revisions, billing order, and casting choices. What should have been a smooth kick-off has quickly turned into one of 2026’s most talked-about drama controversies.
The production team announced Yang Yang as the sole main lead roughly an hour before the booting ceremony, releasing a striking concept poster introducing his character, Li Chi — a rough youth shaped by chaotic times, destined to strategise for the realm and defend the nation with unwavering loyalty.
The ceremony was held on 22 February 2026, with Yang Yang attending despite still visibly recovering from a fracture in his left hand. Having previously sustained injuries during demanding shoots, fans immediately voiced concern.
The actor reassured everyone that the fracture was an accident, that he is recovering well, and urged supporters not to worry.
The drama’s Chinese title, “不让江山”, can be translated as “not yielding the empire”, and it fits the epic, power-driven tone of the story.
Adapted from the novel by Zhibai (知白), the 36-episode series follows Li Chi’s journey from wandering martial disciple to a calculating force in turbulent times. After being sent to Siyue Academy, he faces humiliation but rises through wit and resilience.
He forms a key alliance with Xiahou Zhuo, navigates political schemes, survives betrayal, and ultimately leads forces to protect Jizhou from internal and external threats. The narrative promises strategy, brotherhood, warfare, and high-stakes court intrigue.
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| Bu Rang Jiang Shan Cast Reveal Triggers Billing Order and Script Rewrite Discussion. |
The full cast list was unveiled at the ceremony. Yang Yang leads as Li Chi, with Zhai Zilu as Tang Pidi, Xia Haoran as Xiahou Zhuo, and Zhou Jieqiong as Gao Xining.
Veteran actor Gong Lei joins as Chang Mei, alongside special guest appearances from Zhang Duo, Bao Jianfeng, and Gao Haibao.
The series is directed by Fei Zhen Xiang and Ming Yan, with Tencent Video backing the production. Filming is scheduled to run for around 120 to 130 days at Hengdian World Studios.
However, the real storm began once netizens started dissecting the casting details.
Many were surprised that Zhou Jieqiong was listed fourth in billing, even after the second and third male leads. While some brushed it off as standard male-centric billing structure, others questioned whether it signals limited screen time for the female lead.
ICYMI: Top Billing Chinese Drama Explained.
More intense reactions erupted over the inclusion of comedic influencer Hou Ben. Fans resurfaced an old parody she made of Yang Yang’s previous drama Fireworks of My Heart, interpreting it as mockery.
Some supporters argue that allowing her into the cast feels disrespectful to Yang Yang, especially given his established reputation. Others, however, believe actors should separate personal humour from professional collaboration, calling the backlash excessive.
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| Yang Yang’s Bu Rang Jiang Shan Begins Filming Amid Script Change Rumours and Fan Protests |
The most serious concern centres on alleged script revisions. According to readers of the original novel, Li Chi is portrayed as sharp, strategic, and layered.
Rumours now claim the adaptation may reshape him into a more impulsive and rough-edged character, while transferring pivotal strategic moments to the second male lead.
This has triggered accusations that the production is “using Yang Yang’s fame but distributing the spotlight elsewhere”. There is currently no official confirmation regarding these claims.
Fan reactions remain divided. Loyal supporters are urging Yang Yang’s studio to clarify the rumours or take action if necessary. Some demand transparency about the script.
Others are choosing to wait for official trailers and character posters before forming conclusions, reminding everyone that early production gossip often spirals out of control.
Meanwhile, neutral netizens point out that creative adaptations are common in television and may ultimately enhance the drama’s tension.
Despite the controversy, anticipation for Bu Rang Jiang Shan remains strong.
The storyline promises large-scale political manoeuvring, battlefield sequences, and the classic rise-from-obscurity hero arc that audiences tend to love. Whether the rumours prove true or not, one thing is certain: this drama has secured public attention long before its first teaser drops.
Are the script concerns justified, or is this another case of online speculation snowballing too quickly? What do you think — are fans overreacting, or are their worries understandable?