LayarHijau— Actress and singer Snow Kong recently shared deep insights into her role as Yu Qianqian in the drama Pursuit of Jade (逐玉). Appearing on the Star Colleagues program, she analyzed how her character transformed from the pages of the novel to the television screen, particularly emphasizing her status as a modern woman who travels through time.
During the interview, Snow Kong highlighted the significant differences between the novel and drama versions of Yu Qianqian. She explained that in the original novel, Yu Qianqian is often seen through Qi Min’s obsessive perspective, appearing more passive. However, in the drama adaptation, her identity as a time traveler is given a stronger focus. “Yu Qianqian is a modern soul trapped in the body of a woman from the past. In my view, the drama version gives her more agency and intelligence as a single mother who must run her own business,” Snow Kong stated.
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Snow Kong also revealed several subtle details in her performance that hint at her identity as a time traveler. She mentioned that viewers can observe how Yu Qianqian applies modern business logic to manage her affairs, as well as occasionally slipping in modern slang or behaviors that feel ‘foreign’ to people of that ancient era, such as her perspective on gender equality and financial independence, which contrast sharply with the norms of that time.
Focusing on her background as a modern woman gives Yu Qianqian a very independent outlook on career and love. Snow Kong explained that her character never feels the need to depend on a man. “I think Yu Qianqian is a very independent and smart woman. She has to be strong and courageous in facing many things alone without fear, even when someone tries to disturb her. Because she comes from the future, she has clear views on love and yearns for freedom,” she added.
The ‘toxic’ interaction with Qi Min, played by Deng Kai, was also a key point in her analysis. Snow Kong provided a stark contrast in her character’s feelings toward the male lead compared to what novel readers might imagine. “If Qi Min sees Qianqian as the light in his dark life, for Qianqian—with her modern logic—Qi Min is a nightmare. A nightmare that entangles her like a poisonous snake that keeps chasing her,” she explained regarding their hate-filled dynamic.
In addition to the intense chemistry, Snow Kong shared interesting moments filming with Tian Xiwei. This marks their second collaboration, where she praised her friend’s ‘boyfriend material’ aura during a carrying scene on the city wall. The fun on set also involved Zhang Linghe, who is very lively, and Meng Ziyi, who enjoys sharing plum candy snacks while filming their upcoming drama The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage (倆锨爤各).
Addressing the specialization in ‘roles that result in the death of her spouse’ label from netizens following her roles in Blossom (九重紫) and Pursuit of Jade (逐玉), Snow Kong took it as an interesting acting achievement. For her, whether as a time traveler or a resilient single mother, the most important thing is that Yu Qianqian’s story has the depth to provide new perspectives for the audience.
