Here are the Chinese actors currently dominating online buzz and rapidly gaining popularity through their latest drama roles.

The success of multiple Chinese dramas airing throughout May has sparked intense fan growth competition on Weibo. From historical political dramas and xianxia fantasy series to comedy crime shows, many young actors have recorded impressive increases in followers within just one week, reflecting the strong discussion and viral attention surrounding their characters across Chinese social media platforms.

1. Ci Sha — gained 38,800 followers

In “A Splendid Match,” Ci Sha plays Chen Yan Yun, a powerful yet calm and thoughtful official who quietly protects female lead Gu Jin Zhao. His mature character image and emotional romance storyline helped the actor attract significant attention, making him the fastest-growing actor on Weibo this week.

2. Tian Xi Wei — gained 37,700 followers

Tian Xi Wei surprised viewers by stepping away from her usual sweet and bubbly image to portray police officer Li Qian in “Born with Luck.” Her lively personality and involvement in the drama’s dark comedy moments helped the actress gain a large number of new followers.

3. Liu Haocun — gained 35,500 followers

Liu Haocun impressed audiences through her role as Yi Qin E in “The Lead.” Her character overcomes numerous hardships before eventually becoming a famous Qin Qiang opera singer. Her emotional acting and stage performance scenes earned praise from viewers.

4. Dong Sicheng — gained 34,800 followers

Dong Sicheng gained attention for portraying Ye Xian in “A Splendid Match.” The character’s tragic unrequited love story sparked constant discussion online, with many viewers even jokingly calling him the “screenwriter’s least favorite child” because of his heartbreaking fate.

5. Song Yu He — gained 22,600 followers

In “Born with Luck,” Song Yu He plays Fang Chao, a member of an amateur criminal group constantly involved in hilariously failed schemes. His natural comedic performance left a strong impression on viewers despite not playing a traditional heroic character.

6. Huang Yi — gained 19,100 followers

Huang Yi is currently appearing in two historical dramas simultaneously: “Fate Chooses You” and “A Splendid Match.” Playing both the charming antagonist Zuo Ying Ying and Gu Lan from the Gu family has significantly increased her visibility among drama audiences.

7. Ren Min — gained 13,000 followers

Ren Min attracted attention by starring in both “Light to the Night” and “A Splendid Match.” From the modern and fearless He Xiao He to the sharp and strong historical heroine Gu Jin Zhao, the actress demonstrated impressive versatility across different genres.

8. Wang Herun — gained 11,300 followers

Wang Herun received strong attention for her role as Xin Mei in “Fate Chooses You.” Her character, who is believed to carry a cursed fate for her husbands, fights through hardships and seeks justice for the man she loves, helping the actress leave a memorable impression on fans of xianxia dramas.

According to statistics collected between May 11 and May 17, dramas currently airing continue to generate massive discussion across Chinese social media. Many rising Chinese actors are rapidly expanding their fanbases through breakout performances, leading to increased popularity and stronger online engagement on Weibo.

Sources: Saostar