In today’s fiercely competitive Chinese entertainment landscape, the question of who can carry a drama —guaranteeing both ratings and resonance—has become a hot topic. From industry veterans to post-90s icons, these six actresses have earned public trust with consistent and compelling performances. Here’s who Chinese netizens say deserve the crown.
6. Yin Tao: Quiet But Steadfast
A three-time Best Actress winner, Yin Tao has long mastered serious and period roles, often gravitating toward military and historical narratives. Her breakout as Da Mei in Happiness as Flowers showcased her ability to portray regal yet deeply human characters. Despite maintaining a low profile, she’s remained relevant through works like Feather Flies to the Sky and A Lifelong Journey, proving that substance always triumphs over flash.
5. Tong Yao: The Late-Blooming Flower of Realism
Hailing from Northeast China, Song Jia has quietly solidified her place in socially driven dramas. With standout performances in A Lifelong Journey, Her Story, and A Love for Dilemma, her ability to ground stories in realism has made her a go-to for emotionally resonant roles. Last year’s She and Her Girls became a turning point, with CCTV praising her ability to elevate the script without resorting to drama or gimmicks.
4. Sun Li: The Irreplaceable “Empress”
Often synonymous with Empresses in the Palace, Sun Li has a CV that reads like a greatest hits album: The Legend of Mi Yue, Nothing Gold Can Stay, The Ideal City. Though her recent project A Better Life didn’t make the same splash, it reaffirmed her commitment to tackling new roles. With more than 15 years of top-tier work, she remains one of China’s most respected and enduring talents.
3. Liu Yifei: From Fairy Sister to Legit Leading Lady
Once known more for her ethereal looks than her acting chops, Liu Yifei has now shed the “just a beauty” label. Her return with The Tale of Rose was both critically and commercially acclaimed. With a career that bridges fantasy and realism, and a fan base that spans generations, Liu Yifei has officially entered her golden age—not just as a “Fairy Sister,” but as a serious actress.
2. Yang Zi: The Ratings Magnet of the Post-90s Generation
Yang Zi has charted a remarkable path from child star in Home with Kids to one of the most bankable names in Chinese television. With hits like Ashes of Love, Go Go Squid!, and The Oath of Love, she’s built a reputation for emotional depth and relatability. Known for her integrity and work ethic, she’s also kept her distance from empty publicity, focusing instead on strong roles. Her upcoming project The Tree of Life, alongside Hu Ge, is already generating buzz.
1. Zhao Liying: The Reigning Queen of Ratings
From her humble beginnings to becoming an A-list powerhouse, Zhao Liying tops the list of Chinese actresses who can carry a drama. With iconic roles in Legend of Zu Mountain, The Journey of Flower, Rookie Agent Rouge, The Story of Ming Lan, and Wild Bloom, she’s unmatched in drawing viewer loyalty and critical acclaim. Known for her emotional resonance and fearless dedication, Zhao Liying’s upcoming drama The City Maker is poised to be another ratings juggernaut—solidifying her legacy as television royalty.
Whether through realism, fantasy, or historical drama, these six actresses have proven they’re not just stars—they’re pillars of the Chinese TV industry. When their names appear in the cast, audiences know they’re in for something worth watching.
Sources: kenh14