Cheng Xiang (程相)

Born in 2001 and a graduate of the Beijing Film Academy, Cheng Xiang has carved a niche for himself with his remarkable "face-changing" ability – the power to entirely transform between vastly different roles to the point of being unrecognizable. While he began in lighter web series, his fame is built on his quiet determination and his talent for taking on huge, iconic characters in challenging productions, notably becoming a new generation's "Zhang Qiling" in the Lost Tomb franchise. Breakthrough Role Cheng’s major breakthrough came in 2025 with a one-two punch. First, he appeared as Zuoqiu Chaoran, a minor hero in the hit martial arts drama Farewell to Arms. But his true star-making role was in the web series Wu Xie's Private Notes, where he tackled the legendary role of Zhang Qiling. Initially criticized for not fitting the character's traditional "ice-cold" mold, he won over audiences by masterfully portraying the character's hidden depths, eventually playing a hilarious, bald "Professor Zhang" as a clever disguise, a turn that showcased his comedic chops and acting range. Public Perception Known for his unflashy and diligent approach, Cheng is often seen as a "low-key" actor who shies away from the typical trappings of stardom. His reputation is that of a solid, grounded performer who is building his career "step by step" with a focus on acting rather than hype. Though still early in his career, he has already been recognized with a "New Generation Actor Award" nomination. While he faced a minor public relations setback for a personal conduct issue, his honest and open apology was seen as a sign of maturity. Today, audiences appreciate him for his chameleon-like quality, his surprising versatility, and the feeling that he is a young talent just beginning to show what he can truly do.