In a year filled with visual spectacles and emotional storytelling, 2025 proved to be a defining chapter for Chinese television’s leading men. These seven actors not only carried their dramas to the top of streaming charts but also captivated fans with refined acting, memorable characters, and heart-pounding romance. Here’s a look at the top 7 most loved male leads in Chinese dramas this year.
1. Liu Yuning – The Prisoner of Beauty
Once labeled a “costume drama disaster,” Liu Yuning flipped the narrative entirely with his breakout performance as Wei Shao. His portrayal of a revenge-driven strategist with icy charisma in Khom Lung turned heads, especially during intense, climactic scenes that trended on Weibo. His evolution as an actor is finally being recognized, with fans praising his emotional restraint and layered expressions.
2. Bai Jingting – The First Snow
In The First Snow, Bai Jingting redefined the dreamy CEO archetype. His character was both gentle and assertive—an irresistible blend for romance drama lovers. Instead of exaggerated expressions, Bai delivered subtle emotion and perfect timing, creating natural, heart-fluttering chemistry that resonated widely online. The role cemented him as a front-runner in the sweet-romance genre.
3. Xiao Zhan – The Legend Of ZangHai
Xiao Zhan returned in fantasy form, leading The Legend Of ZangHai, a genre-blending epic that showcased his dramatic range. Known for his flawless visuals, he was praised this time for tapping into deeper emotional territory—grief, sacrifice, and resilience. His haunting expressions and immersive storytelling led the show to dominate discussion boards and fan communities throughout the year.
4. Dylan Wang (Wang Hedi) – Guardians of the Dafeng
Wang Hedi embraced action and grit in Guardians of the Dafeng , where he played a stoic night officer in a politically charged martial world. His fight choreography was sharp, his emotional delivery compelling. The performance is being hailed as his most mature since Love Between Fairy and Devil, with fans appreciating both visual appeal and growth in nuance.
5. Zhang Linghe – The Best Thing
For fans of modern romance, Zhang Linghe shined in The Best Thing, a heartfelt drama that steered away from clichés. His performance as a soft-spoken, sincere male lead was refreshing. Rather than idealized perfection, he brought authenticity, making the character’s romantic gestures feel earned and tender—perfect for the youth-oriented sweet genre.
6. Yang Yang – Zhan Zhao Adventures & The Immortal Ascension
In an impressive feat, Yang Yang balanced two high-profile dramas with contrasting tones. In Zhan Zhao Adventures, he portrayed a tormented soul marked by destiny, relying on controlled emotions to carry the weight of tragedy. Meanwhile, The Immortal Ascension showcased his agility in fight scenes and otherworldly visuals, proving he can command both romance and fantasy worlds with equal force.
7. Li Xian – In The Name Of Blossom
In In The Name Of Blossom, Li Xian embodied a dignified and emotionally complex nobleman. With minimal dramatics and maximum precision, his performance was grounded in subtle glances and firm tone—an acting style directors admire for its consistency. It’s a role that allowed him to quietly steal scenes and build trust with viewers.
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