Initially dismissed as a potential disaster, the fantasy drama A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality has stunned viewers and industry insiders alike by becoming one of the highest-rated television shows in China this year.
Based on a popular xianxia novel, the 2025 drama adaptation stars Yang Yang as Han Li, a poor village boy who embarks on a perilous path of cultivation in a mystical realm. Despite its rich source material, the show was widely criticized pre-release for its casting and condensed storyline.
Yang Yang, once criticized for “wooden acting” in past dramas like Fireworks of My Heart and Who Rules the World, faced backlash when announced as the lead. Similarly, co-star Jin Chen was faulted for a “Westernized” appearance and a lack of chemistry with Yang. Many feared the production would tarnish the beloved IP.
Making matters worse, the series was trimmed to just 30 episodes, resulting in a rushed narrative arc that left fans unsatisfied with the pacing and character development. Online sentiment painted the show as a missed opportunity.
However, once it aired on Zhejiang TV, A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality defied expectations. Despite already being available on streaming platforms, it achieved an impressive average CVB rating of 0.3% within its first six episodes ranking in the top three of the network’s most-watched series of 2025.
Critics and viewers alike now credit the drama’s success to Yang Yang’s enduring popularity and on-screen allure. With over a decade in the industry, his flawless visuals and ethereal presence continue to captivate audiences, proving that star power still carries weight in Chinese entertainment.
While the drama’s depth may falter, its unexpected commercial success reflects the power of visual storytelling and how a strong fanbase can turn a criticized project into a prime-time winner.
Sources: K14
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