Chinese dramas and films

Production has officially begun in Guangzhou on Tencent Video's new romantic drama «Endless Summer» (爱在无尽夏). The series marks a significant milestone as the first full-length drama role for Ke Chun, a rising star who has dominated the micro-drama landscape.

The story follows a couple torn apart by fate years ago, who unexpectedly cross paths again. As they navigate the delicate space between old memories and new emotions, they attempt to reclaim a "long-overdue summer romance". The narrative weaves together elements of urban melodrama, psychological thriller, and social commentary, promising richer, more layered storytelling than conventional romantic series.

The lead roles are played by Ding Yu Xi («The Road to Splendor», «Archives: The Nanyang Mystery»), Meng Zi Yi («Blossoms Of Power», «Blossom»), and Ke Chun («УHi Jiangye», «What a Good Girl»).

Ding Yu Xi portrays Shen Yan, a criminal psychology professor with a dual nature – combining sharp analytical intellect with deep emotional depth. The role marks the actor's return to modern idol dramas after a five-year hiatus following «Moonlight». 

Meng Zi Yi takes on the part of He Nian, a young woman who emerges from inner turmoil with the strength to start her life anew.

In their high school days, Shen Yan and He Nian were secret lovers who parted ways under unclear circumstances. As adults, He Nian has become a well-known television host, while Shen Yan has built a career as a criminal psychology professor. Fate unexpectedly brings them back together during a television program, forcing them to confront the past they left unresolved.

This project marks the second collaboration between Ding Yu Xi and Meng Zi Yi. The pair previously appeared in supporting roles in the 2025 drama «Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Love in Pavilion», where their characters unexpectedly captured viewers' hearts. They had a romantic storyline with a tragic ending. They even overshadowed the main couple of the series. Fans kept asking for more and more – and now their pleas have been heard by the God of the Chinese drama industry.

A fascinating highlight of the drama «Endless Summer» will be Ke Chun.

Read more: Kings of Chinese Micro-Dramas

Ke Chun is also a star, but of micro-dramas. This genre is new, and the stars of this segment are far from known to all fans of full-length series.

At the same time, Ke Chun is called the absolute leader and the "face" of the micro-drama genre. The 25-year-old actor has a fan army in the millions. He started acting in 2023, and the total number of views for his works (of which there are already more than 20) has exceeded 20 billion. In total, he has more than 50 projects in two years.

A former IT professional, Ke Chun comes from an artistic family: his mother is a choreographer and his father a theater screenwriter, so he is no stranger to the entertainment business. He made history as the first micro-drama star to hire a personal stylist, launch his own YouTube channel, and establish a dedicated studio complex for video production – building what amounts to his own mini-empire.

In «Endless Summer» Ke Chun takes on the role of the male second lead, playing Cheng Xiaofan, a sharp-witted and sardonic elite lawyer who remains deeply loyal and principled beneath his polished exterior. Industry observers are eager to see how his micro-drama acting style translates to the full-length series format, given the considerable differences between the two content types.

At the opening ceremony, the entire production team appeared in soft lilac-colored attire, with leads Ding Yu Xi and Meng Zi Yi drawing media attention through their lively interaction and easy rapport – a moment that quickly sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms.

The set was adorned with floral arrangements from more than a dozen brands, including jewelry house Mengjinyuan, cosmetics brand Proya, and automaker Wuling – a clear sign of advertiser confidence in the project's commercial potential.

The series has been granted high-priority status from the outset, securing a place on Tencent Video's prestigious 2026 drama lineup with an S+ rating, while also ranking among the top ten most anticipated new releases.

A total of 24 episodes are planned. Filming is scheduled to span approximately 90 days, taking place primarily in Guangdong Province and its capital Guangzhou, with additional location shoots in Shenyang, located in the northeastern province of Liaoning.

Based on industry standards, post-production typically takes three to six months. With this timeline in mind, the earliest possible premiere would be in the first quarter of 2027, though a summer 2027 release appears more likely.

Sources 1, 2, 3, 4, 5