1. Liu Yuning
Liu Yuning took the top spot in 2025 with major roles in The Prisoner of Beauty and A Dream within a Dream. Once dubbed a “bad fit” for historical dramas due to his looks, he reversed public opinion with solid performances and commanding presence. His tall frame, emotional depth, and charisma earned him a massive fanbase this year.
2. Zhao Lusi
Known as the “male god magnet,” Zhao Lusi reinvented herself in Love’s Ambition, stepping away from her usual sweet-girl roles to play a cunning, layered character. This role marked her breakthrough into more mature storytelling, winning her critical praise and securing her spot as a top female lead.
3. Bai Jingting
Bai Jingting gained widespread acclaim from the hit drama The First Frost, where he portrayed a cold yet passionate male lead. His chemistry with the female lead, coupled with a faithful adaptation of a beloved novel, solidified his appeal and sparked intense fan discussion.
4. Cheng Yi
Cheng Yi impressed audiences with dual hits — Tian Di Jian Xin and Fu Shan Hai. His ability to portray both heroic and villainous characters across genres showcased his range. Even in less favorably reviewed series, his personal performance consistently stood out.
5. Zhang Ruonan
Zhang Ruonan rose to prominence with her touching portrayal in The First Frost. Playing a vulnerable yet resilient character, she struck an emotional chord with viewers. She followed it up with another strong performance in Huai Shui Zhu Ting, reinforcing her growing star power.
6. Xiao Zhan
Xiao Zhan made a strong return with The Legend of Zang Hai, a revenge fantasy epic. His character’s emotional complexity, combined with rigorous training for action scenes and a sculpted physique, brought fans flocking back. His loyal fanbase helped him dominate streaming charts.
7. William Chan
Chen Weiting, a former idol group member, returned to top form in Love’s Ambition. His portrayal of a calculating yet romantic CEO drew viewers in. The drama’s popularity, along with viral comparisons to a local personality, fueled buzz around his performance.
8. Song Zu’er
Song Zu’er returned to the spotlight with The Demon Hunter’s Romance and The Prisoner of Beauty. Despite past controversies, her acting, especially in highly stylized period roles, captivated audiences. Her fashion and set designs also generated significant attention.
9. Bai Lu
Bai Lu stayed relevant with Moonlight Mystique, a fantasy-romance series. Her charm and chemistry with co-stars kept audiences engaged, even if some series faced criticism. Her consistent presence in big-budget productions helped her maintain visibility.
10. Li Yitong
Once labeled a “ratings killer,” Li Yitong turned her career around in 2025. With standout performances in A Dream within a Dream and Sword and Beloved, she showcased a knack for comedic timing and emotional depth. Her role in a fantasy comedy especially impressed viewers, earning her newfound respect.
Sources: ETtoday星光雲
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