 |
| Wang Yibo Rumoured for Tang Sanzang as CCTV Plans £50m-Scale “Journey to the West” Remake. (Credits: Weibo) |
China’s state broadcaster CCTV has reportedly set its sights on one of the most treasured stories in Chinese television history, with a brand-new adaptation of Journey to the West (西遊記) planned for 2027.
Before filming has even begun, the project is already making noise online after rumours claimed Wang Yibo could be lined up to play Tang Sanzang, the monk at the heart of the legendary pilgrimage.
No official casting has been confirmed, but that has not stopped the internet doing what it does best: turning whispers into a full-blown national debate.
According to reports circulating in Chinese media, the drama is expected to begin production in the first quarter of 2027, spanning 27 episodes with a reported investment of 500 million yuan.
For a television remake, that is serious money, and naturally audiences are asking whether this will be a respectful revival or an expensive way to annoy nostalgic viewers.
The production is said to be led by director Fei Zhenxiang, known for visually ambitious adventure work. Insiders claim filming locations may include Xinjiang’s Flaming Mountains, Gansu’s Yulin Caves, and even the historic ruins of Nalanda Mahavihara in India.
If true, the remake appears determined to go bigger than previous versions, both geographically and financially.
There are also claims of collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Sciences on visual effects, which sounds grand and impressive, though viewers will likely reserve judgement until they see whether the clouds, demons and magic staffs actually look convincing.
Casting details have fuelled even more curiosity. Reports suggest the role of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, may be filled through an open audition aimed at performers trained in opera.
 |
| CCTV Journey to the West Remake Cast Rumours Put Wang Yibo in Key Role |
That move has been widely praised, as many fans believe the character needs physical control, stage discipline and comic timing rather than just another handsome face with expensive hair styling.
Meanwhile, Pigsy is reportedly being considered for a naturally comic actor, while Sandy may go to someone with martial arts credentials or a rising newcomer.
In short, producers seem aware that audiences can forgive many things, but not bad casting in a national classic.
The loudest reaction, however, centres on Wang Yibo and the possibility of him playing Tang Sanzang.
Supporters argue his calm screen presence, refined appearance and cooler style could suit a more elegant interpretation of the monk.
Some fans even compared his image to earlier beloved portrayals, saying he carries the same composed, almost untouchable aura expected of the character.
Others pointed out a cultural coincidence: both Wang Yibo and the historical monk Xuanzang, who inspired Tang Sanzang, are linked to Luoyang. Online commentators quickly described that as the sort of symbolic detail publicity teams dream about.
Still, not everyone is sold. Some viewers worry any remake of Journey to the West walks straight into danger. The original versions remain deeply loved, and audiences tend to greet modern reboots with folded arms and raised eyebrows.
Several netizens joked that if Wang Yibo really plays Tang Sanzang, the famous “81 trials” would turn into endless scenes of female demons queueing up to admire him, while the Monkey King might end up wondering why he is suddenly the supporting role.
That mix of excitement and scepticism has made the rumour trend even harder. Fans want scale, quality and respect for the source material. Critics fear glossy visuals and celebrity names cannot replace heart, wit and spiritual depth. Both sides, frankly, have a point.
For now, CCTV has not officially confirmed Wang Yibo or any cast member, meaning everything remains speculation. But one thing is already certain: if this remake gets the casting wrong, audiences will notice immediately.
If it gets it right, it could become one of the most talked-about dramas of 2027. So, would Wang Yibo make the perfect Tang Sanzang, or should producers look elsewhere?