Dawn Chen (陈芳彤)

Chen Fangtong’s journey to fame is a compelling story of reinvention and perseverance. Originally named Chen Chen, she first entered the public eye in 2015 through a talk show, where her heartfelt performance of the song Prisoner Bird went viral. After signing with a new agency in 2020 and adopting her current stage name, she steadily transitioned from supporting roles to leading parts in a string of popular costume dramas. Known for her nuanced, understated acting style, Chen has built a reputation as a versatile actress who proves that persistence and skill are the keys to a lasting career.

Breakthrough Role

Chen‘s breakthrough came in 2022 with the historical romance short drama Qian Jin Ya Huan (《千金丫环》). Premiering on Youku on September 8, the series became a massive hit and significantly raised her profile. Prior to this, she had already gained attention for playing the supporting role of the maid “Liu’er” in the 2020 hit series Jun Jiu Ling (《君九龄》), as well as starring in the youth drama The Memory of Time (《原来时光都记得》) and the costume drama A Piece of Jade in the Heart (《一片冰心在玉壶》). However, it was her leading role in Qian Jin Ya Huan that truly cemented her status as a rising star in the competitive landscape of Chinese costume dramas.

Public Perception

Today, Chen Fangtong is widely recognized as a dedicated and hardworking actress who has methodically climbed the ranks of the industry. Having started from humble beginnings in variety shows and minor roles, she is now a familiar face in costume web dramas, often taking on leading roles in popular series such as A Kiss to Remember (《一吻存档》), To 1999 (《致1999年的自己》), and Back to 1995, Falling for You (《回到1995爱上你》). While she may not yet be a household name in mainstream entertainment, she has earned a loyal following and considerable goodwill for her consistent performances and her inspiring journey from obscurity to leading lady.