LayarHijau –Ci Sha is drawing renewed attention through his role in the period drama A Splendid Match (良陈美锦). Previously recognized for his performances in Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms and Blades of the Guardians, he is now being praised for his portrayal of Chen Yanyun, a powerful court official characterized by calm authority and emotional restraint.
In the drama, Ci Sha plays Chen Yanyun, also known as Chen Sanye, a high-ranking court official described as “cultured but not weak, strong but not reckless.” Viewers have described the character as a vivid embodiment of a powerful political figure who appears composed on the surface while carefully controlling his inner emotions.
A Splendid Match is adapted from the novel by Shen Xiang Hui Jin. The story follows Gu Jinchao, played by Ren Min, a woman who is reborn after the collapse of her family. Amid court intrigues and political struggles, she attempts to rebuild her life while navigating shifting power dynamics, including her complex connection with Chen Yanyun.
In an interview with Yangtse Evening Post, Ci Sha shared that what he finds most compelling about Chen Yanyun is the character’s stability and sense of responsibility.
“No matter how the outside world changes, he always has his own principles. He can also serve as a support system for those around him, both in matters of the state and in personal relationships,” Ci Sha said.
To bring the character to life, Ci Sha adopted a highly controlled acting approach, focusing on subtle emotional expression rather than overt performance. He also designed small details in his performance, such as allowing the eyes to react before any visible change in facial expression.
For instance, when Chen Yanyun receives shocking news, his pupils shift slightly while his face remains composed and steady. Ci Sha noted that this experience deepened his understanding of how restrained acting can sometimes carry greater emotional weight than exaggerated expression.
However, there is one scene in which this restraint breaks completely. In that moment, Chen Yanyun discovers that his mentor, Fu Hailian, has betrayed his original beliefs. He responds by throwing a book in frustration, symbolizing the collapse of his internal conviction.
“That was the only scene where I truly let my emotions go,” he said.
Beyond emotional performance, Ci Sha’s action skills also stand out in the drama. During filming, he contributed improvisations to several fight scenes. One example is a knife-spinning movement he added during a sequence where Chen Yanyun rescues the crown prince while also protecting Gu Jinchao.
The visually striking “da tie hua” iron-flower performance scene was also created through spontaneous collaboration between the actors and the production team on set.
“As long as it fits the story and the character, I’m willing to try different ideas to make the role feel more alive,” he explained.
The dynamic between Chen Yanyun and Gu Jinchao has also become a focal point among viewers. Many have highlighted the emotional balance between steadfastness and sincerity in their relationship, noting how it stands out within the political and historical backdrop of the story.
Ci Sha emphasized that Chen Yanyun is not simply a conventional romantic figure. Instead, his feelings are rooted in recognition of Gu Jinchao’s sincerity and inner strength.
According to Ci Sha, their relationship is built not only on romance but also on respect and mutual understanding.
“Chen Yanyun never judges the person he loves. When he looks at Jinchao, he chooses to see her as an equal. He witnesses her growth rather than defining who she should be,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Ci Sha shared that he is currently reviewing several upcoming scripts. He has also completed dubbing work for the films Raging Havoc (怒火漫延) and Mastermind (偵戰).
He added that he does not limit himself to specific genres or character types, and instead aims to bring a distinct interpretation to every role he takes on.
