Zhang Linghe has topped a controversial online poll ranking the “worst actors” born after 1995, as voted by Chinese netizens.
According to Sohu, the post-95 generation of actors includes many visually striking names such as Wang Hedi, Wu Lei, and Song Weilong. While they enjoy massive fanbases thanks to their looks, their acting skills have frequently sparked mixed and often critical reactions.
Recently, Chinese social media platforms launched a poll to determine the top 10 worst actors born after 1995. Zhang Linghe ranked first, followed by names like Wang Yibo, Fan Chengcheng, Wang Hedi, and Deng Wei.
Despite his strong visuals, Zhang Linghe has long struggled to shake off the label of a “pretty face with weak acting.” Without formal training, critics argue that his acting foundation remains underdeveloped. Some opinions go further, claiming that he lacks natural talent and has not shown significant improvement across projects.
In Story of Kunning Palace, Zhang Linghe’s performance as the male lead was widely criticized as underwhelming. Viewers noted that he failed to convey the character’s depth, intelligence, and calculated personality. Similarly, in The Princess Royal, a beloved historical romance among fans, he was again criticized for stiff expressions and lack of emotional range.
His latest project, Pursuit of Jade, has also placed him at the center of controversy. While some viewers acknowledged slight improvements in his expressions, many still mocked his portrayal for misrepresenting the character. His heavy makeup featuring bold red lips, thick eyeliner, and heavy foundation was widely seen as inappropriate for a battlefield general.
The criticism even led to sarcastic nicknames such as “foundation general” and jokes implying he prioritized makeup over combat. More recently, backlash intensified after Zhang Linghe was accused of making remarks perceived as offensive toward Southeast Asian appearances. The controversy sparked widespread outrage, prompting the actor to issue a public apology.
The debate surrounding Zhang Linghe reflects a broader discussion in the Chinese entertainment industry, where visual appeal often brings rapid fame but sustained success increasingly depends on proven acting ability.
Sources: Znews
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