LayarHijau.com – June 2025 | Two of China’s most popular young actresses, Song Zuer and Zhang Jingyi, are once again set to compete for viewers’ attention, as their latest dramas are scheduled to premiere just two days apart. Interestingly, this marks the second time in two consecutive months that their new works are going head-to-head.
A Rematch in the Spotlight
Back in May, Song Zuer starred in the historical romance The Prisoner of Beauty alongside Liu Yuning, while Zhang Jingyi appeared in the epic fantasy Legend of Zang Hai with Xiao Zhan. The two dramas aired around the same time, creating buzz and drawing comparisons between the two rising stars.
Now, the two are set to clash again—this time with added intrigue due to a casting controversy that made headlines.
A Role That Shifted from Song Zuer to Zhang Jingyi
Zhang Jingyi’s upcoming drama 《煥羽》 (Reborn) was originally developed with Song Zuer as the lead actress. She had been cast opposite rising actor Zhou Yiran, known for When I Fly Towards You. The plan was in place shortly after Song Zuer wrapped filming for her industry-themed drama 《淬火年代》, now officially titled Created in China.
However, things took a turn in 2023 when Song Zuer was embroiled in a tax evasion scandal. A former accountant associated with her management alleged that she had evaded taxes totaling 45 million yuan. The controversy came amid a wave of tax crackdowns in China, following previous high-profile cases involving Zheng Shuang, Deng Lun, and Yuan Bingyan.
Shortly afterward, Song Zuer was quietly removed from Reborn before production even began. Prominent producer Yang Xiaopei reportedly unfollowed Song Zuer on social media, seen by fans as a clear sign of cutting professional ties. According to Taiwanese outlet Up Media, this was a strategic “damage control” move, as all celebrities at the time were under potential audit scrutiny.
Eventually, the role went to Zhang Jingyi, who now headlines the drama.
Premiere Dates and Drama Summaries
Song Zuer in Created in China
Original Title: 《淬火年代》
English Title: Created in China
Premiere Date: June 17, 2025
Co-star: Zhang Xincheng
Genre: Industrial drama, romance
Synopsis:
Set in the late 1990s, the story follows Liu Jun (Zhang Xincheng), an engineer returning from Germany to his hometown of Donghai. Determined to revitalize his father’s outdated factory, he begins the arduous journey of modernization. He is introduced to Cui Bingbing (Song Zuer), an honest and pragmatic banker, through a matchmaking setup. What starts as awkward encounters blossoms into both a romantic and professional partnership. The drama explores themes of ambition, transformation, and love during China’s industrial reform era.
Platform: WeTV, iQiyi
Zhang Jingyi in Reborn
Original Title: 《煥羽》
English Title: Reborn
Premiere Date: June 19, 2025
Co-star: Zhou Yiran
Genre: Youth drama, family, healing romance
Synopsis:
Qiao Qingyu (Zhang Jingyi), a 16-year-old high school student, moves to a big city to uncover the truth behind her sister’s mysterious death, long shrouded in rumors. There, she meets Ming Sheng (Zhou Yiran), a rebellious yet empathetic classmate. Together, they embark on a journey of healing, personal growth, and self-discovery. Over the years, their bond deepens and eventually blossoms into love. The series offers a heartfelt portrayal of trauma, resilience, and emotional rebirth.
Platform: WeTV, iQiyi
An Inevitable Rivalry
The fact that Created in China and Reborn will premiere just two days apart—on June 17 and June 19, respectively—has sparked renewed discussion among fans. The added twist that Song Zuer was originally cast as the lead in Reborn, only to be replaced by Zhang Jingyi following her scandal, gives this rivalry an unexpected dramatic arc of its own.
Having made a strong comeback through The Prisoner of Beauty, Song Zuer seems ready to reclaim her place in the industry. Meanwhile, Zhang Jingyi continues to solidify her status as one of the most promising young actresses, especially after landing a role that nearly slipped away.
Who will shine brighter this June? The audience will decide.
