A slew of new Chinese dramas have already captured attention with gripping plots, outstanding casts and strong expectations of becoming big hits in 2026.
1. Overdo it
With Zhang Linghe and Wang Churan
Set in 1920s Shanghai, Exaggerate follows the story of Murong Qingyi, a boy mistreated by his adoptive father who decides to run away and is saved by Ren Susu. However, this act leads to tragedy for Susu’s family. Years later, the two reunite and fall in love, but Susu is forced to fake her death, leaving Qingyi devastated.
Three years later, she returns, but no longer as the Susu he once knew. She is now engaged to Qingyi’s older brother. One harbors resentment over the betrayal, while the other hides painful truths, leading to an emotional struggle between persistent love and unresolved hatred.
As the truth slowly comes out, their feelings are rekindled. Yet, just as they begin to reconcile, the country finds itself facing turmoil. Faced with a national crisis, Qingyi and Susu put aside personal emotions to fight on the front lines, guided by both ideals and unyielding love.
2. Hidden shadow
With Wang Churan and Li Hongyi
This drama is notable for its “one body, two souls” fantasy concept, blending elements of the martial arts world with political intrigue. Wang Churan takes on a dual role: Mei Jiu, a noble lady from the Song Dynasty, and An Jiu, a modern assassin, while Li Hongyi plays Chu Dingjiang, a mysterious blind general.
What begins as a mutually exploitative relationship gradually evolves into a life-or-death bond. The drama continues the dark and visually rich aesthetic style associated with Guo Jingming, while adapting the original story by replacing the transmigration of the soul with a protective awakening of the personality. The intertwining of the martial world and court politics creates an intense narrative tension.
3. Where the mask ends
With Tian Xiwei and Yan An
Ah Chou, born into poverty, endured a life of contempt and oppression. Because she resembles Wei Rao, a noble lady, she is forced to assume her identity and becomes a “lucky bride” married to a member of a duke’s family, where the heir Lu Zhuo lies gravely ill.
Believing this marriage is his only chance to change his destiny, Ah Chou enters a dangerous world of power struggles. When Lu Zhuo wakes up unexpectedly, unexpected events occur, dragging her deeper into danger. Meanwhile, Wei Rao seeks revenge to reclaim his stolen identity.
Amid layered conspiracies, Ah Chou must rely on his intelligence and endurance to survive, ultimately earning Lu Zhuo’s trust and affection. Along the way, he discovers secrets about his true origins and ultimately rewrites his destiny.
4. The road to glory
With Zhang Linghe and Lin Yun
Adapted from a novel by Tuan Zi Lai Xi, The road to glory is set in the winter of the fourth year of Shaojing. Xiao Li, a market leader, rescues Wen Yu, a fallen princess seeking military help.
As they spend time together, their relationship deepens. Determined to protect her, Xiao Li travels alongside Wen Yu to restore his kingdom. Thanks to their efforts to eliminate corrupt officials, Xiao Li emerges from a street figure to become the king of Wei, holding half the kingdom.
As they rise to power, their relationship becomes increasingly complex, facing both political and emotional challenges.
5. Brilliant girlfriend
With Tian Xiwei and Hu Yitian
Brilliant girlfriend is a modern love story adapted from a novel by Su Guangtong. Tian Xiwei plays Lin Zhixia, a genius girl with an IQ of 174, whose intelligence creates distance between her and her classmates.
One day, the wealthy heir Jiang Yubai moves into her class and becomes her classmate when they are only 9 years old. Determined to overcome her, he repeatedly fails against her brilliance.
Despite this, the two become close friends and childhood sweethearts, maturing together over time. In the end, their bond evolves into a sweet and sincere youthful love story.
Sources: Saostar
