Fifteen years have passed, and the four actors once known as the “Tianya Four Beauties” have each taken very different paths, reflecting the harsh realities of time and the ever-changing entertainment industry.
Over a decade ago, the term “Tianya Four Beauties” dominated Asian online forums, referring to four iconic historical drama heartthrobs: Wallace Chung, Qiao Zhenyu, Yan Yikuan (Yan Kuan), and Wallace Huo.
They represented the gold standard of period drama visuals, with appearances so flawless they were often compared to characters straight out of video games. Yet, 15 years later, their fame no longer sits evenly among them, as each has experienced distinct highs and lows.
Among them, Qiao Zhenyu is often cited as the model of consistency and quiet perseverance. He made a lasting impression with his role as Ouyang Mingri in Snowflower, captivating audiences with his refined, jade-like elegance. Though initially a supporting character, his presence outshone even the leads.
In the years that followed, Qiao steadily built his career through various wuxia adaptations, proving his acting ability beyond just his looks. Rather than chasing constant spotlight, he chose a more reserved path, even taking on supporting roles to strengthen his performances. His recent comeback in Legend of Zang Hai surprised viewers, showing that he never truly left he simply chose a slower, steadier approach.
In contrast, Wallace Huo has undergone a noticeable transformation in image. Once known for his aloof, almost untouchable characters such as Bai Zihua in The Journey of Flower or Xu Changqing in Chinese Paladin 3 he was synonymous with cold, restrained charisma.
In recent years, however, he has broken away from that mold, taking on more grounded and even comedic roles. In Why Is He Still Single?, his portrayal of a sharp-tongued, witty man navigating everyday situations offered audiences a refreshing new perspective. This shift has helped him maintain his appeal, as viewers now see a more relatable and authentic side of him.
Yan Yikuan’s journey, on the other hand, stands out as a remarkable comeback story. Once considered the most visually perfect among the four, he went through a long period of relative obscurity despite consistent work. His return in Pursuit of Jade changed everything.
Now in his middle years, he has moved away from purely “handsome lead” roles, embracing more complex characters with authority and depth. His mature acting, blending calmness with underlying intensity, has earned him renewed praise and is often described as a dramatic turnaround after years of silence.
Meanwhile, Wallace Chung has become the most debated figure of the group. Long praised as an “ageless male god” following the success of My Sunshine, he maintained a romantic leading-man image for years. However, now in his 50s, continuing to play youthful CEO-type roles in romance dramas has sparked discussion.
In The Epoch of Miyu, while his acting skills and demeanor remain solid, close-up shots reveal visible changes that make the character less convincing to some viewers. Critics argue that the issue is not his age, but rather the mismatch between his roles and his current stage in life, which creates a noticeable disconnect.
Looking back at the 15-year journey of the “Tianya Four Beauties,” it becomes clear that while their visuals once brought them to the top, it is not what sustains longevity. Those who adapted, evolved their image, or focused on deeper acting have carved out their own space. In contrast, holding onto past images while time moves forward can create distance from audiences.
Despite their different paths, there is no denying that they remain an unforgettable part of C-drama history. The roles that defined their careers still stand as lasting reminders of an era when historical drama beauty reached its peak.
Sources: Saostar
You must be logged in to post a comment.