xiao zhan unlimited spy dramaposter-retro-cheongsam-suit.

The upcoming Chinese drama “Spying” (tentative title) has officially announced its main cast, headlined by two major stars: Xiao Zhan and Zhou Yutong.

While both actors are celebrated for their talent and are known to be close friends, the casting has sparked intense backlash among some fans specifically from Xiao Zhan’s fanbase.

xiao zhan unlimited spy dramasplit-portrait-Chinese-actors-smiling.

Fans of Xiao Zhan have launched a movement, strongly opposing Zhou Yutong’s involvement in the project. The root of the issue traces back to Zhou Yutong’s controversial appearance on the reality show Divas Hit the Road Season 6 last year.

During the show, Zhou was labeled by viewers as “selfish” and “overbearing.” Incidents included her brusque response to senior actress Gina Jin, saying “Then get off the car” when asked to quiet down, and walking in on Gina Jin mid-shower unannounced.

She was also criticized for pushing fellow celebrity Liu Ye during a group photo and altering a three-person performance into a duo without informing co-star Chen Hao. Despite issuing clarifications afterward, the damage to her public image remained significant.

Social media has since erupted with mixed reactions. While some netizens defend Zhou Yutong’s acting skills, others insist her personality overshadows her talent. Comments range from:

  • “She’s dramatic, but undeniably talented. Better than many others.”
  • “Her past behavior is troubling, and fans are understandably concerned.”
  • “No matter how pretty she is, poor attitude should be boycotted.”

Spying is a high-profile adaptation produced by Daylight Entertainment, based on the novel of the same name by Tang Qiqi. Alongside Xiao Zhan and Zhou Yutong, the cast also includes Feng Hui, Guo Zhihan, Zheng Jiabin, and Shen Jiayun. Zhou Yutong plays Lan Ouren, a mathematical genius and widow who secretly plots an assassination against a military officer, her true motives a central mystery of the plot.