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| Yu Shuxin’s ‘Immortal Flesh’ Loses Rumoured Male Lead as Casting Chaos Continues Behind the Scenes. (Credits: Weibo) |
The casting search for Yu Shuxin’s upcoming fantasy costume drama has officially become more dramatic than some actual C-drama storylines. After weeks of rumours, industry chatter and increasingly chaotic fan speculation, it is now reportedly confirmed that He Yu will not be starring as the male lead in iQIYI’s new adaptation of “Immortal Flesh”, also known by its Chinese title '神仙肉', which is now rumoured to have been renamed “Longing for You” or '念相思'. At this point, the drama title seems to be changing almost as often as the casting rumours.
The project has already attracted major attention because of Yu Shuxin, also known internationally as Esther Yu, whose popularity in costume dramas remains one of iQIYI’s safest cards to play.
Adapted from the novel by Yi Du Jun Hua, the story mixes fantasy, romance and darker philosophical themes centred around humanity, greed, spirits and temptation. In simple terms, it is one of those classic xianxia setups where everyone is emotionally suffering while looking unrealistically beautiful in several layers of expensive robes.
According to online reports circulating across Chinese entertainment forums, He Yu was originally attached to play the role of Rong Chenzi.
However, the actor reportedly stepped away due to scheduling conflicts alongside mounting online pressure connected to fandom tensions involving both actors.
Neither side officially announced him as the confirmed lead in the first place, which made the phrase “male lead replacement” unintentionally funny to some netizens. As several users pointed out online, “You cannot replace someone who was never officially announced.” Fair enough.
Rumours claim discussions had progressed significantly before plans quietly shifted. The drama’s director is reportedly staying attached to the project, but the male lead search is now continuing behind the scenes.
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| Director Breaks Silence on Esther Yu Drama Casting Rumours After He Yu Exit Buzz |
Rumoured names linked to the role include Chen Xingxu, Deng Wei, and Xin Yunlai, though sources insist no final decision has been made yet.
Naturally, Chinese social media immediately turned into a live audition room. Some fans pushed hard for Deng Wei, arguing his visual chemistry with Yu Shuxin would perfectly suit the fantasy aesthetic.
Others preferred Chen Xingxu, believing his more serious acting style could balance Esther Yu’s brighter on-screen energy. Meanwhile, another group simply begged production teams to “please decide quickly before another rumour arrives tomorrow morning.” Honestly, understandable..
Behind the scenes, the production itself has reportedly faced multiple complications beyond casting. Rumours about filming delays have continued circulating this month, while online discussions regarding possible script adjustments and softened story elements from the original novel have left some longtime readers nervous.
The novel’s darker themes and unusual mythology are considered part of its appeal, so fans worry excessive changes could dilute what made the source material memorable in the first place.
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| He Yu and Esther Yu previously worked together in the drama Speed and Love. |
Adding even more confusion, separate rumours suggesting possible AI-generated supporting actors triggered another wave of criticism online.
While nothing has been officially confirmed regarding AI usage, many viewers reacted negatively to the idea, joking that productions should perhaps focus on securing a confirmed male lead before experimenting with futuristic casting strategies.
One viral comment sarcastically wrote, “At this rate, AI might end up becoming the male lead too.” The internet truly never misses an opportunity.
Despite the uncertainty, anticipation surrounding the drama remains strong. Yu Shuxin recently hinted she would soon begin filming a new costume drama after returning to China, further fuelling speculation that production preparations are entering the final stage.
Reports suggest filming could begin sometime this summer, assuming the casting process finally settles down long enough for someone to actually wear the costume and stand in front of a camera.
For now, iQIYI has not officially announced the final male lead, which means the guessing game continues. And honestly, half the entertainment value currently comes from watching C-drama fans investigate every actor’s schedule like full-time detectives.
So who should really star opposite Yu Shuxin in “Immortal Flesh”? Should the production go with visual chemistry, acting reputation, fandom popularity, or simply whichever actor survives the rumour cycle first?