According to QQ, romantic dramas remain one of the most popular genres among young audiences thanks to their easy-to-watch narratives and strong potential to go viral on social media. Many of today’s top actresses, such as Yang Mi, Zhao Liying, Zhao Lusi, Bai Lu and Yang Zi, have built solid reputations through romantic dramas and are widely praised for their strong chemistry with male co-stars.
In contrast, actresses including Zhao Jinmai, Li Qin, Li Yitong and Chen Yuqi have been criticized for stiff performances in romantic scenesreportedly with some of their romantic plans fail due to the lack of a credible pairing between the protagonists.
Zhao Jinmai, born in 2002, has starred in numerous romantic dramas over the past three years, including Shine on me, Our generation, In the midst of a snowstorm of loveAND The Royal Princess. However, these projects have been criticized weak chemistry between the lead couple. Chinese media commented that although Zhao Jinmai has an intelligent-looking face, she lacks mature feminine charm and struggles to portray romantic intimacy naturally. His kissing scenes, in particular, drew criticism for appearing awkward and emotionally disconnected.
Chen Yuqi, although he was strongly supported after becoming famous in popular dramas such as Princess agents AND Ashes of loveshe also struggled to establish herself as a top-flight actress. Although paired with high-profile male stars such as Li Yifeng, Wang Hedi, Luo Yunxi and Cheng Yi, she was criticized for rigid expressions and limited emotional range in romantic scenes. Screenwriter Yu Zheng even described her as one difficult case to popularizehighlighting the pressure surrounding his future plans.
Another often mentioned name is Li Qin, often labeled a “cold beauty” by the Chinese media. Although praised for her acting skills in intense or dramatic scenes, she is considered as such they lack warmth and romantic charm on screen. Although she starred in major productions, her roles became increasingly secondary, earning her the nickname “decorative female protagonist.” In recent years, she has been ranked below younger male co-stars, sparking discussions about her declining standing in romantic dramas.
Li Yitong, born in 1990, also faced similar challenges. Despite appearing in nearly 20 dramas over the past decade and frequently teaming up with top male stars, she has struggled to achieve mainstream popularity. Known by unflattering nicknames such as “the coldest actress in C-ent” OR “C-ent’s Fire Extinguisher”, Li Yitong is often criticized for this stereotyped acting and inability to evoke strong emotional responses in romantic narratives.
Industry observers note that while acting skills remain important, the ability to generate romantic chemistry is a critical factor in the success of romantic dramas. For these actresses overcoming such perceptions may be essential to regaining momentum and securing leading roles in the highly competitive Chinese drama market.
Sources: TP
