Chinese dramas and films

On May 8, 2026, the 40-episode historical drama "The Road to Glory" (归鸾, 歸鸞, Return of the Male Phoenix) officially wrapped filming at the Hengdian World Studios .

The project will be a Tencent Video exclusive. The drama is expected to premiere in late 2026.

The lead roles are played by Zhang Ling He ("Pursuit of Jade", "Our Generation") and Lin Yun ("Whispers of Fate", "Footprints of Change").

The drama is based on the novel of the same name by writer Tuan Zi Lai Xi, who also worked on the script for another Zhang Ling He project, "Pursuit of Jade".

The story is set in an era of political chaos: a corrupt Chen dynasty is being replaced by a new power. The protagonist, Xiao Li (Zhang Ling He), is the head of the Eastern Market in Yongzhou, a fighter living on the edge of survival. One day, he accidentally saves Wen Yu (Lin Yun) - a princess who has lost her kingdom and is on her way to Southern Chen to request military aid. The relationship between the two begins with mutual distrust but gradually deepens into a strong bond. As Xiao Li helps his beloved take revenge on the traitors, he himself transforms from a street rogue into the ruler of Wei, commanding half the realm. At one point, the hero challenges Wen Yu directly: "Don't marry your Chen prince. Marry me instead."

The production budget is estimated to exceed typical costs for such period productions.

For this role, Zhang Ling He transformed himself beyond recognition: the actor gained 8 kg of muscle, significantly tanned his skin, and changed his image, appearing on screen with a mustache for the first time.

He inherited not only the physical transformation from his character but also several injuries sustained during the intense shooting schedule. In mid-April 2026, the actor collapsed on set due to low blood sugar, resulting in leg muscle cramps, yet he continued filming rain scenes and night shoots, often needing assistance from staff after wrap. At the end of April, footage appeared online showing the actor limping as he got out of a car.

Read more: "For a Boy, This Is Normal" – Zhang Ling He Reassures His Fans

Zhang Ling He's message to fans

Filming took place under harsh winter conditions, with the actors working 12-hour days or longer. It was also challenging for Lin Yun. For her, this role was a challenge she prepared for meticulously: the actress devoted considerable time to studying the script, making detailed notes, and mastered horseback riding and archery to look convincing in battle scenes.

At one point, Lin Yun fell ill on set due to exhaustion and cold, requiring heart medication. Her shoulders were chafed raw by the heavy armor, which she had to change several times during filming. Despite the physical difficulties, Lin Yun demonstrated high professionalism, completing all scenes, including complex staged fights.

Lin Yun plays the role of the foremost beauty of Liang, Wen Yu — a smart and proud princess who refuses to be simply a victim of circumstances. Her main goal is not love but revenge and the restoration of lost power. The character's nature is perfectly captured in her own words: "I want an army. I want power." Over time, she transforms from a pampered princess into an experienced player in the world of political intrigue.

The final day of shooting was particularly grueling. Due to filming running long, rain caught the crew by surprise. Despite his fatigue, Zhang Ling He did not have time to wash off his blood-stained makeup and, pushing through the pain in his leg, went out into the pouring rain to the hundreds of fans who were waiting for him outside. The actor also organized "reverse support" — treating fans to tea and pastries.

In 2026, the Republican-era drama starring Zhang Ling He, "Overdo" (这一秒过火), is also scheduled for release; according to rumors, its premiere is set for the May–August 2026 slot.

Lin Yun is expected to appear in the drama "Liao Zhai" (聊斋) based on the works of Pu Songling, where she will play in an episode adapted from the story "The Beauty's Head".