LayarHijau – The first trailer for the upcoming historical romance drama Biaomei Wanfú (表妹万福 / Cousin’s Happiness) has officially been released and quickly made waves on Weibo. Many viewers immediately focused on the undeniable chemistry between lead actors Song Zuer and Chen Xinhai, especially during the hero-rescues-damsel scenes that evoke a classic feel.
Biaomei Wanfú is adapted from a novel by Peng Lai Ke, the same author behind the recently successful drama adaptation The Prisoner of Beauty (折腰 ), which stars Song Zuer and Liu Yuning. This marks Song Zuer’s return to a role based on Peng Lai Ke’s work, shortly after The Prisoner of Beauty became one of the most widely-discussed costume dramas of the year on major Chinese streaming platforms.
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In the series, Song Zuer plays Zhen Jiafu (甄嘉芙), a young woman who was ensnared in political turmoil after marrying her cousin in a previous lifetime. Upon her rebirth, she chooses a different cousin instead: the gentle and dependable Pei You’an (裴右安). Their relationship begins as a “marriage first, then love” journey. Pei You’an is portrayed by Chen Xinhai, who has been gaining recognition for his recent performance in The Double.
A standout moment from the trailer shows Zhen Jiafu narrowly escaping an attempted kidnapping. As she runs in fear, Pei You’an emerges from the shadows, swiftly fighting off the attackers before placing his cloak over her, offering comfort and protection. The scene flooded Weibo comments with praise for Chen Xinhai’s protective aura and Song Zuer’s expressive performance, balancing fear, relief, and inner strength.
The preview also gave fans a taste of the drama’s romantic-comedy elements. In one humorous moment near the end, Zhen Jiafu boldly suggests to Pei You’an that they marry to throw off a prince who continues to pursue her. Chen Xinhai’s stunned reaction—literally choking on the spot—made many viewers laugh and praise the natural chemistry between the two.
Song Zuer is currently in the midst of a strong comeback after nearly two years away from the screen due to a tax-related controversy. She has regained momentum this year through dramas like The Demon Hunter’s Romance (无忧渡 ), and especially The Prisoner of Beauty, which has earned substantial popularity. Her return to a Peng Lai Ke adaptation has only heightened anticipation among fans eager to see how she brings a new character to life through her signature emotional nuance and screen presence.
Biaomei Wanfú began filming in July and is now nearing the end of production. Leaked wedding stills of the lead couple have already surfaced online, with many praising Song Zuer’s elegant look in traditional bridal attire complete with a phoenix crown (fengguan), calling it one of the most stunning costume wedding visuals in recent dramas.
With a strong fanbase and a proven track record between author and actress, Biaomei Wanfú is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated costume dramas on the release slate.
