Chinese entertainment is abuzz again after well-known paparazzi photographer Liu Dachui released footage purportedly showing actors Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan in a private and affectionate outing, sparking widespread dating speculation.
The couple, both rising stars in China’s film and television industry, were seen spending time together late at night, fueling rumors that their on-screen chemistry may have turned into a real-life romance.
In the days before the revelation, Liu Dachui had teased a “secret couple” in the entertainment industry. According to his suggestions, the female celebrity was a so-called “Mou Girl”, a term used for actresses who gained fame thanks to director Zhang Yimou’s films, while the male celebrity was a well-known actor born after 1990. This vague description sparked intense speculation online as fans tried to guess the couple’s identity.
On June 26, the mystery was apparently solved when footage emerged identifying the couple as Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan. Paparazzi video shows Qin Junjie returning to a residential area in Beijing where Zhou Xiaofan reportedly lives.
Shortly after their arrival, the two were seen out for a casual meal with friends before returning together to the actress’ home around midnight.
The footage, which shows them walking closely and behaving comfortably in public, quickly went viral on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. Many viewers noted that the pair appeared unusually affectionate, with moments of physical closeness and relaxed body language fueling further speculation that they may already be living together.
After the video was released, keywords related to Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan increased on Weibo trending lists. Many netizens believe that the couple may have developed a romance in real life after working together in two drama projects, Sunset, Secrets, Regret and Punishment 2. Their strong on-screen chemistry was previously praised by fans, who noted their natural interactions and emotional performances.
However, neither Qin Junjie nor Zhou Xiaofan have publicly addressed the dating rumors.
Qin Junjie, born in 1991, is known for roles in popular Chinese dramas such as Noble Aspirations, Legend of Dragon Pearl, Listening Snow Tower and The Emperor’s Harem. He was also often discussed in the media for his romantic history with co-stars. His previous high-profile relationship with actress Yang Zi ended after two years, with reports suggesting trust issues contributed to the split.
Since then, Qin Junjie has often been linked to various co-stars, earning a reputation in the entertainment media as an actor often surrounded by dating rumors.
Zhou Xiaofan, born in 1997, is an emerging actress who once ranked among the top 10 “campus goddesses” of the Beijing Film Academy. She gained significant recognition for her role in Zhang Yimou’s hit Lunar New Year film Full River Red, where she played the dancer Qingmei.
She also appeared in Cliff Walkers, further establishing her presence in high-profile productions. Chinese media praised her elegant and sophisticated beauty, often comparing her to supermodel Liu Wen and singer Faye Wong.
Despite the viral footage and ongoing speculation, both Qin Junjie and Zhou Xiaofan have remained silent regarding the dating rumors. For now, fans continue to debate whether the two are simply close colleagues or whether a new celebrity couple has actually formed behind the scenes.
Sources: K14
