LayarHijau – China’s social media platform Weibo has released its list of the six most popular Chinese drama characters of 2025, based on how frequently they appeared on Weibo’s hot search rankings. The hot search functions similarly to the trending topics column on X (Twitter), reflecting what Chinese netizens discuss the most in real time. According to the data, Xiao Zhan emerged as the clear frontrunner, leading the chart by an overwhelming margin.
No. 1: Zang Hai – The Legend of Zang Hai (藏海传) | 674 times
Xiao Zhan claimed the top spot with his role as Zang Hai in The Legend of Zang Hai. The character is portrayed as the son of the imperial astronomical official who survives the massacre of his entire family and returns to the capital ten years later to seek revenge. Armed with intelligence, strategic thinking, and architectural expertise acquired over the years, Zang Hai gradually uncovers a vast court conspiracy. Xiao Zhan’s restrained yet emotionally charged performance ensured that Zang Hai rarely left the hot search rankings throughout the drama’s broadcast.
No. 2: Wei Shao – The Prisoner of Beauty (折腰) | 229 times
Liu Yuning secured second place with Wei Shao, a ruthless warlord known for his cold demeanor on the battlefield but possessing a surprisingly gentle inner side. Initially driven by deep family resentment, Wei Shao slowly changes after developing a relationship with Xiao Qiao, played by Song Zuer. The strong contrast in the character’s personality, combined with Liu Yuning’s towering physique and commanding presence, made Wei Shao one of the most talked-about male characters of the year.
No. 3: He Weifang – In the Name of Blossom (国色芳华) | 216 times
Yang Zi ranked third with her portrayal of He Weifang, a woman who rises from a marriage marked by violence and deception. After leaving her husband, He Weifang rebuilds her life in Chang’an as a flower merchant. The many emotional trials she faces—ranging from family conflict to pressure from her past—were powerfully conveyed by Yang Zi, keeping the character consistently trending during the drama’s run.
No. 4: Ning Xiuxiu – This Thriving Land (生万物) | 162 times
Yang Mi placed fourth with Ning Xiuxiu, a resilient village woman who dares to challenge feudal traditions. Her life story, filled with hardship, family conflict, and her struggle to lead villagers out of poverty, sparked emotional discussions online. The role is widely regarded as a turning point in Yang Mi’s acting reputation.
No. 5: Bai Shuo / Xing Yue – Moonlight Mystique (白月梵星) | 155 times
Bai Lu entered the list with her dual role as Bai Shuo and Xing Yue. Bai Shuo’s cheerful and empathetic personality, paired with the fantasy setting that bridges gods and humans, made the character especially appealing to viewers. Among the three dramas Bai Lu starred in during 2025, this role proved to be her most popular.
No. 6: Jiang Changyang – In the Name of Blossom (国色芳华) | 140 times
Li Xian rounds out the list with Jiang Changyang, an official notorious for his carefree behavior and labeled as “the most corrupt official,” while secretly gathering intelligence to protect the state. Li Xian’s portrayal of the character’s dual nature, along with strategic mind games against Prince Ning, kept Jiang Changyang in public discussion despite ranking sixth.
Overall, the list highlights how strong character writing and compelling performances continue to shape the popularity of Chinese dramas, while reaffirming Xiao Zhan’s dominant presence at the top of the industry throughout 2025.
