Zhao Liying (赵丽颖)

Zhao Liying’s fame is built on a remarkable journey from a rural background and a non-professional arts education to becoming the first actress in her generation to achieve the "Grand Slam" of China's top television awards. Discovered through a Yahoo-sponsored talent competition in 2006, she spent years grinding in supporting roles. Her breakthrough came in 2013 with the historical drama Legend of Lu Zhen, but it was the 2015 fantasy epic The Journey of Flower that skyrocketed her to superstardom, amassing over 20 billion online views and setting viewership records. This made her the undeniable "Queen of Ratings," a title she has maintained with a string of hits, culminating in her recent critical triumph with the drama Wild Bloom, for which she won the prestigious Flying Apsaras Award and the Golden Eagle Award for Best Actress.

Breakthrough Role While Legend of Lu Zhen brought her initial fame, Zhao Liying's definitive breakthrough role was the titular character in the 2015 xianxia drama The Journey of Flower (花千骨). The series became a cultural phenomenon, achieving record-breaking ratings and becoming the first Chinese drama to surpass 20 billion online views. Zhao’s performance, which portrayed the character’s evolution from a pure and innocent girl to a tragic and heartbroken figure, was lauded for its emotional depth and nuance. The role not only cemented her status as a top-tier actress and the "Queen of Ratings" but also led to widespread acclaim, with many saying there is no other "Hua Qiangu" but hers.

Public Perception Zhao Liying's current standing in the industry is that of an undisputed top-tier actress who has successfully bridged the gap between commercial success and critical acclaim. Following her 2024 award wins for her performance in Wild Bloom and her impactful role in the film Article 20, she solidified her reputation as a serious, powerhouse performer. She is recognized as a "ratings guarantee" and a "box office draw", with her films consistently turning a profit. This success has earned her international recognition, such as being the sole Asian actress to rank on the "World's Most Loved Actors" list. However, her public image is not without its complexities. While lauded for her work ethic and focus on her craft, she is also a polarizing figure, with ongoing debates about her acting style, particularly her use of her natural voice. Despite this, her immense popularity endures, as evidenced by a 2025 broadcast of her dramas achieving 23 consecutive viewership wins. Zhao Liying has proven that she is more than just a "traffic star," having evolved into an actress whose career is defined by a combination of audience adoration, critical respect, and a relentless drive for artistic growth.