Zhang Linghe is making headlines for his dedication to his latest role in the historical drama Zhu Yu, where he underwent a significant physical transformation to portray a powerful general. The series, which also stars Tian Xiwei, is currently airing and has quickly become one of the most talked-about Chinese dramas thanks to its strong performance in viewership ratings.
According to Yunhe Data on March 18, “Zhu Yu” captured 44.5% of the market share, reaching around 97 million daily views. The drama had previously surpassed the 50% mark and exceeded 100 million views in a single day, highlighting its overwhelming popularity among audiences.
In the drama, Zhang Linghe takes on the role of General Xie Zheng, impressing viewers with his commanding presence and muscular physique. However, behind this image is a rigorous process of preparation. Speaking in a recent interview, the actor revealed that he deliberately gained weight to better fit the role, explaining, “A general needs to be bigger and stronger,” while also noting that the heavy armor used in the drama required significant physical strength just to handle.
The armor worn by his character reportedly weighs over 20 kilograms, posing a real challenge during filming. Zhang Linghe admitted that wearing it for the first time was बेहद difficult, as it restricted movement and made even simple actions exhausting. This experience motivated him to fundamentally improve his physical condition rather than rely solely on appearance.
To meet the demands of the role, the actor committed to a structured fitness routine over six months. He set up a home gym, focused on daily core strength exercises, and followed a scientific muscle-building plan to reshape his physique. The transformation was not only visual but also functional, allowing him to perform demanding action scenes more effectively.
From intense horseback charges to battle sequences in harsh conditions like snow, Zhang Linghe’s improved strength contributed to a more realistic portrayal of a battlefield general. Reflecting on the experience, he shared that he was able to “truly feel the hardships of ancient generals,” adding depth to his performance.
The actor also praised his co-star Tian Xiwei, noting her impressive physical stamina and suggesting that she likely trains regularly. Their combined effort has enhanced the drama’s overall quality, further fueling its success.
With both high ratings and positive audience response, Zhang Linghe’s transformation in “Zhu Yu” stands out as a testament to his commitment to the craft, reinforcing his growing reputation in the industry.
Sources: Sohu,Yunhe Data
You must be logged in to post a comment.