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| Casting Rumours Swirl Around Zhang Linghe’s Next Drama Citan Amid Surge in Popularity. (Credits: Upmedia) |
The broadcast of the historical drama Pursuit of Jade (逐玉) has triggered another surge in attention for Zhang Linghe, with the actor reportedly gaining around 300,000 new followers on Weibo within a single week. The sharp rise reflects growing audience interest in the series and further strengthens Zhang’s standing among the current generation of young Chinese drama leads.
Starring alongside Tian Xiwei, Zhang takes on the role of Xie Zheng, a mysterious nobleman whose hidden identity sits at the centre of the drama’s unfolding conflict. As the show continues to gain traction online, the character — and Zhang’s portrayal — has quickly become one of the most talked-about elements among viewers.
The latest spike in popularity is not an isolated moment for Zhang Linghe. The actor has steadily built recognition through several widely discussed productions over the past few years.
His performance in Story of Kunning Palace (宁安如梦) alongside Bai Lu drew major attention when the drama aired, while the fantasy thriller My Journey to You (云之羽) with Yu Shuxin further expanded his audience base. He later returned to romance with Xu Ruohan in The Best Thing (爱你), reinforcing his ability to move between genres.
With each project attracting active discussion online, Zhang’s name has increasingly become associated with costume dramas that generate strong viewer engagement.
The Character Driving the Buzz in Pursuit of Jade
In Pursuit of Jade, Zhang Linghe plays Xie Zheng, a nobleman left gravely injured after a violent attack that wipes out his family.
He is rescued by Fan Changyu, portrayed by Tian Xiwei, and subsequently conceals his true identity as the Marquis of Wu’an, adopting the alias Yan Zheng while secretly planning revenge.
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| Zhang Linghe’s Popularity Climbs Rapidly After Pursuit of Jade Premiere |
The character’s layered personality has become a major talking point. Around the two sisters who save him, Xie Zheng appears calm and considerate. Yet when confronted by danger, his colder instincts emerge quickly.
Several scenes showing the wounded nobleman defeating multiple assassins despite suffering from severe injuries — including a damaged leg — have been widely circulated online.
Combined with Zhang Linghe’s striking historical styling, the role has amplified his visibility among drama audiences.
As the story progresses, the drama is expected to shift towards deeper political conflict. The character’s powerful uncle Wei Yan, played by Yan Kuan, is set to become a key figure in the unfolding power struggle.
Many viewers praised the actor’s screen presence in costume dramas, with comments highlighting how naturally he fits historical roles. Others pointed to the growing scale of discussion around his projects, suggesting his dramas consistently generate attention even before production begins.
However, not all responses are entirely celebratory. Some observers have noted that rapid rises in popularity often bring heightened scrutiny, particularly regarding future casting choices and industry positioning.
Still, the overall conversation reflects how closely audiences are now watching Zhang Linghe’s next career moves.
Rumours Around Next Historical Drama Citan
Alongside the momentum from Pursuit of Jade, industry discussions have already shifted towards Zhang Linghe’s reported next project. After completing filming for the costume drama The Road to Glory (归鸾), the actor is said to be preparing for another historical series titled Citan (刺棠).
The drama’s female lead, however, remains uncertain — a situation that has fuelled speculation online.
Zhang Jingyi was initially rumoured to be the top choice. The two actors previously appeared together in a Lancôme advertising campaign, which received positive public feedback. Reports later suggested the collaboration did not progress due to disagreements regarding billing order.
Attention then turned to Li Landi, whose recent performances in Filter (滤镜) and Coroner’s Diary (朝雪录) significantly raised her profile last year.
Yet Li Landi is also known for being firm about billing arrangements. Her earlier planned pairing with Ding Yuxi in the historical drama Moonlit Flowers Fall (月都花落) reportedly stalled over similar discussions.
More recent rumours have pointed to Wang Yuwen as the potential female lead.
Mixed Reactions to Possible Zhang Linghe and Wang Yuwen Reunion
If confirmed, Citan would reunite Zhang Linghe and Wang Yuwen, who previously worked together in the fantasy costume drama Tiger and Crane (虎鹤妖师录).
The possibility has sparked mixed reactions online.
Some viewers welcomed the idea of a second collaboration, arguing that familiar co-stars can sometimes produce stronger chemistry. Others, however, questioned whether Wang Yuwen’s historical drama styling matches the strong visual presence Zhang Linghe is known for in costume roles.
Another topic frequently raised in online discussions involves perceived differences in industry momentum. Wang Yuwen, who debuted in 2016, has appeared in multiple projects but is often noted by commentators as still searching for a widely recognised breakout drama.
Because of this, some fans have debated whether the pairing would generate the same level of excitement as other potential casting combinations.
Production Yet to Confirm Final Cast
For now, none of the casting discussions surrounding Citan have been officially confirmed by the production team. As is often the case in the Chinese drama industry, rumours circulating during early development stages may change before filming begins.
What is clear, however, is that Zhang Linghe’s rising visibility continues to shape conversations across drama circles, particularly as Pursuit of Jade pushes his popularity to another level.
With new projects reportedly lining up and fans closely watching each development, the actor’s next casting announcement is likely to attract significant attention. Whether Citan becomes his next major hit remains to be seen — but the discussion is already underway.
What do you think about Zhang Linghe’s rise after Pursuit of Jade? And if Citan moves forward, which actress do you think would create the best on-screen pairing with him?