According to QQ, Zhang Linghe is becoming a negative example of actors prioritizing popularity and visuals over authentic acting. Following the airing of “Pursuit of Jade,” his nickname “foundation general” has spread widely across Asia, turning into a major controversy.
Not only that, but as viewers continue to examine the drama more closely, they are pointing out unrealistic details and what they describe as a lack of effort in Zhang Linghe’s acting. Some have even called for a temporary broadcast ban or restrictions on his activities as a warning to young actors.
One particular scene that drew criticism shows the male lead Xie Zheng preparing weapons for himself and his comrades before heading into battle. Despite working intensely at a forge, the character shows no signs of sweating and remains dressed in spotless white clothing. Upon closer inspection, viewers also noticed that Zhang Linghe’s fingers appeared curled weakly, lacking any sense of strength.
The scene was widely deemed unrealistic, as a forge is typically extremely hot. In such settings, characters are often depicted shirtless or partially exposed to emphasize masculinity, raw energy, and the intensity of battle preparation. However, Zhang Linghe was criticized for portraying the moment too gently, as if “polishing a blade like writing poetry,” which many felt did not suit a general’s role.
Additionally, viewers pointed out that his way of handling a bow and arrow was incorrect. Unlike more experienced actors, he did not properly adjust the arrow, further reinforcing claims that he lacked preparation and professionalism for the role.
In “Pursuit of Jade,” although Zhang Linghe plays a general, he has relatively few combat scenes. Moreover, his appearance remains consistently neat—his hair never messy, his armor never dirty. Behind-the-scenes footage also surfaced showing him unable to mount a horse on his own, requiring assistance from wires, while staff members in green suits guided the horse before being edited out in post-production.
These details have led viewers to criticize his horsemanship skills, especially given his frequent appearances in historical dramas. Many believe he fails to convey the powerful and commanding presence expected of a battlefield general. Instead, with his fair skin and slender build, some viewers commented that he resembles a nobleman wearing a general’s costume rather than a fierce warrior.
Meanwhile, Zhang Linghe’s fans have continued comparing his portrayal of a general to iconic on-screen warriors such as Xiang Yu, Lü Bu, and Zhao Zilong, played by actors like Peter Ho, Wu Jing, and Louis Koo. Actors of the same generation, including Chen Zheyuan and Wang Hedi, have also been brought into comparisons—often to elevate Zhang Linghe.
As a result, Chinese social media platforms have been flooded with posts criticizing his role as Xie Zheng in “Pursuit of Jade,” with nicknames like “foundation general” and “makeup before battle” trending widely.
On April 2, as the mocking images and discussions surrounding Zhang Linghe spread rapidly—even appearing in news segments in neighboring countries—the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) reportedly held a meeting to address filmmaking standards, emphasizing strict measures against productions that prioritize visuals and traffic over quality, warning against distorted aesthetics in the industry.
Sources: kenh14
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