Chinese entertainment is once again buzzing after well-known paparazzi photographer Liu Dachui released footage allegedly showing actors Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan in a private and affectionate outing, sparking widespread dating speculation.

The pair, both rising stars in China’s film and television industry, were seen spending time together late at night, fueling rumors that their on-screen chemistry may have turned into a real-life romance.

In the days leading up to the reveal, Liu Dachui had teased a “secret couple” in the entertainment industry. According to his hints, the female celebrity was a so-called “Mou Girl” a term used for actresses who gained fame through director Zhang Yimou’s films while the male celebrity was a well-known actor born after 1990. This vague description sparked intense online speculation as fans attempted to guess the identities of the pair.

On June 26, the mystery was seemingly solved when footage surfaced identifying the couple as Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan. The paparazzi video shows Qin Junjie returning to a residential area in Beijing where Zhou Xiaofan reportedly lives.

Shortly after arriving, the two were seen going out for a casual meal with friends before returning together to the actress’s residence around midnight.

The footage, which shows them walking closely and behaving comfortably in public, quickly went viral on Chinese social media platform Weibo. Many viewers noted that the pair appeared unusually affectionate, with moments of physical closeness and relaxed body language fueling further speculation that they may already be living together.

Following the release of the footage, related keywords about Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan surged on Weibo trending lists. Many netizens believe the pair may have developed a real-life romance after working together in two drama projects, Sunset, Secrets, Regret, and Punishment 2. Their strong on-screen chemistry had previously been praised by fans, who noted their natural interactions and emotional performances.

However, neither Qin Junjie nor Zhou Xiaofan has publicly addressed the dating rumors.

Qin Junjie, born in 1991, is known for roles in popular Chinese dramas such as Noble Aspirations, Legend of Dragon Pearl, Listening Snow Tower, and The Emperor’s Harem. He has also been frequently discussed in the media for his romantic history with co-stars. His previous high-profile relationship with actress Yang Zi ended after two years, with reports suggesting trust issues contributed to the breakup.

Since then, Qin Junjie has often been linked to various co-stars, earning him a reputation in entertainment media as an actor frequently surrounded by dating rumors.

Zhou Xiaofan, born in 1997, is a rising actress who once ranked among the Top 10 “Campus Goddesses” of Beijing Film Academy. She gained significant recognition for her role in Zhang Yimou’s blockbuster Lunar New Year film Full River Red, where she portrayed the dancer Qingmei.

She has also appeared in Cliff Walkers, further establishing her presence in high-profile productions. Chinese media have praised her elegant and sophisticated beauty, often comparing her to supermodel Liu Wen and singer Faye Wong.

Despite the viral footage and ongoing speculation, both Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan have remained silent regarding the dating rumors. For now, fans continue to debate whether the pair are simply close colleagues or if a new celebrity couple has indeed formed behind the scenes.

Sources: K14