Chinese actress Tian Xiwei is currently facing a difficult time in her historical drama career Zhu Yustarring Zhang Linghe, it becomes one of the most controversial series on the air right now.
According to Chinese media reports, the drama has received a wave of mixed reactions online and has even faced calls for a boycott from some viewers. The controversy put unexpected pressure on Tian Xiwei, even though his performance was widely recognized by the public.
A performance praised despite the controversy
In Zhu YuTian Xiwei plays Fan Changyu, a strong woman who works as a butcher and takes care of her younger sister after their parents die. The character requires both emotional depth and physical strength, prompting the actress to prepare extensively for the role.
Reports say that Tian Xiwei spent months training in martial arts and even practiced carrying real pigs on his back to realistically portray the character’s strength. His dedication paid off in several emotionally intense scenes later in the drama.
One particular crying scene, depicting the devastation after her village was destroyed and her sister disappeared, attracted more than 20 million views online. The performance convinced many viewers that Tian Xiwei played one of his most impactful roles yet.
However, while his acting has received praise, the overall reputation of Zhu Yu has been overshadowed by controversy.
Controversies about the drama
Some viewers have questioned the drama’s rapidly increasing viewership, suggesting that the statistics may have been artificially inflated by streaming platforms to create the impression of popularity. These allegations have led to public skepticism and sparked heated debates online.
To further complicate matters, it was rumored that tensions between the two protagonists, Tian Xiwei and Zhang Linghe, would have begun during the early stages of production. Subsequently, Zhang Linghe became involved in separate controversies, including criticism over remarks relating to Southeast Asia.
These problems have weakened the promotional chemistry expected from the drama’s lead couple. In romantic dramas, the audience’s enthusiasm for the on-screen couple often plays a large role in a show’s popularity. However, Tian Xiwei and Zhang Linghe failed to generate strong support from the “CP” fandom.
In fact, some viewers even commented that the secondary couple, played by Kong Xueer and Deng Kai, seemed to attract more attention than the main protagonists.
A series of unfortunate timing issues
Industry observers have noted that this is not the first time Tian Xiwei has been hit by controversies involving her co-stars.
For example, in romantic drama Midnight returnher co-star Xu Kai became involved in dating scandals during the broadcast period, which discouraged some viewers from continuing the series.
Likewise, when popular drama Start a new life at the premiere, lead actor Bai Jingting was photographed dating actress Song Yi shortly after the show’s release. Although the series did well, the two protagonists rarely interacted publicly to avoid controversy.
Other projects involving Tian Xiwei have faced similar challenges. During the production of My genius girlhis co-star Hu Yitian was seen holding hands with a woman, while actor Xin Yunlai from another project was also involved in a dating rumor shortly after filming wrapped.
According to analysts cited by Sina, such controversies often shift media attention away from the plot and performances, focusing instead on off-screen gossip. This can ultimately reduce the impact of an actor’s work.
A rising star still looking for a breakthrough role
Born in 1997, Tian Xiwei is considered one of the most promising actresses of China’s “post-95 generation”. Her delicate features have earned her the nickname “period drama doll”, and she is known for her willingness to undergo demanding training for roles.
Despite his dedication and solid acting performances, he has yet to land a truly explosive hit or an iconic character that immediately defines his career.
For now the controversy remains Zhu Yu highlights both the opportunities and challenges Tian Xiwei faces as he continues to navigate China’s competitive entertainment industry.
