LayarHijau — Reports are circulating that Yan An, a former member of the Korean boy group PENTAGON, was reportedly not the first choice to play Lu Zhuo in the period drama Where the Mask Ends (嫁金钗). According to Hong Kong outlet HK01, he was said to be only eighth on the initial candidate list and was reportedly cast after going through seven auditions. The claim stems from rumors in circulation, not from a direct interview or an official statement from the drama’s team.
The report includes no statement from the production team, the director, the streaming platforms, or Yan An’s side confirming any details of the casting process. The rumor is also said to correct an earlier impression that Yan An had been locked in as the male lead from the start.
Support Layar Hijau
Layar Hijau is an independent media outlet dedicated to sharing news and stories about the Asian dramas you love. If you enjoy our content, your support helps us keep going and bring more stories to fellow drama fans.
Every bit of support means a lot to us. Thank you for reading, following, and being part of Layar Hijau's journey.
For supporters in Indonesia
For international supporters
For more information, click here.
Where the Mask Ends is streaming on Netflix and Youku, starring Tian Xiwei and Yan An. The drama blends a real-versus-fake-daughter storyline in an aristocratic family with a substitute-bride marriage meant to ward off bad luck (chongxi). Yan An plays Lu Zhuo, the heir (shizi) to the noble House of the Duke of Ying, portrayed as dignified and broad-shouldered like a general.
Reported Audition Standards
According to the rumor, Lu Zhuo in the original novel has two sides: the sharp skill of a general on the battlefield and the poised composure of an heir raised in a noble household. For that reason, the production team was said to be extremely careful in choosing who would play him.
The selection process was reportedly made up of a bare-faced acting test, a group script reading, an on-camera test in full makeup, and a martial arts test with an action instructor. Candidates were also said to be asked to show the look in their eyes and subtle facial expressions as they began drawing a sword. Reportedly, even one detail that did not fit the bearing of an ancient aristocrat was enough to eliminate a candidate.
Said to Be Eighth on the List
Among the candidates, the investors and the director’s team were reportedly in contact with seven popular young actors, including Li Yunrui, Hou Minghao, and Chen Xingxu. Yan An was said to have been listed only eighth. The report names only three of them, and no party has confirmed that they took part in the casting process.
Even so, the production team was reportedly not choosing based on popularity, but on how convincing a candidate was on camera.
Seven Auditions
Yan An was said to have gone in and out of the audition room seven times. Over that period, he reportedly reworked the details of his performance again and again, practiced the rhythm of his lines without makeup, and then showed a straight, commanding posture and fluid sword movements in the on-camera round. According to the rumor, he eventually passed the evaluation of the director’s team and the investors.
The report drew reactions from some netizens. One netizen commented, “Tested seven times before the decision was made, so the role was clearly earned through on-camera performance.”
The HK01 report also says the story has become a talking point in China’s entertainment industry about the importance of professional casting. According to the report, casting without testing for fit often leaves a character and actor feeling mismatched. That assessment is described as coming from industry commentary in general, with no named sources.
Chinese dramas products
Rosy Zhao Rosydoedian Authentic Dachshund Plush Doll Squeaky Soft Stuffed Decorative Throw Pillow Collectible Gift
Authenthic Dachshund plush doll from Zhao Lusi's Rosydoedian.
It's only available for shipping to certain countries.
Official Genuine Pursuit of Jade Drama Collectible Photocards Zhang Linghe Tian Xiwei Photo Trading Cards Holiday Gift
Official genuine collectible photocards These Pursuit of Jade Drama collectible photocards are officially licensed and authentic, featuring beloved characters Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Perfect for fans seeking genuine memorabilia from the popular drama.
New Drama Fangs Of Fortune Official Merch Collectible Cards Zhao Yuanzhou, Wen Xiao Characters HD Photocard Cosplay Gift
Official Merchandise from Fangs of Fortune This collectible card set is officially licensed Fangs of Fortune merchandise, featuring beloved characters Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao in high-definition detail for true fans.
