Zhuyu (逐玉): The Most Anticipated Chinese Historical Romance of 2026
The historical romance genre is making a powerful return in 2026, and among the most eagerly awaited titles is Zhuyu (Chasing Jade) — a sweeping 40-episode costume drama starring rising sensations Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. With its emotional depth, strong character arcs, and a blend of war, romance, family tragedy, and political complexities, Zhuyu is already generating major buzz before its release.
Here is everything you need to know before this epic series premieres.
Quick Drama Facts
- Title: Zhuyu (逐玉) / Chasing Jade
- Genre: Historical, Romance, War, Melodrama
- Episodes: 40
- Leads: Zhang Linghe, Tian Xiwei
- Director: Zeng Qingjie
- Adaptation: Based on the novel Zhu Yu
- Filming Period: December 2024 – April 2025
- Expected Release: Q1 2026
- Platform: Expected to stream on major Chinese platforms (international platform details to be announced)
Plot Summary: A Love Forged in Chaos
Set in a turbulent era marked by war and shifting political power, Zhuyu tells the emotionally gripping story of Fan Changyu and Xie Zheng — two people from completely different worlds whose lives are bound together by fate, tragedy, and a marriage of survival.
Fan Changyu: A strong-willed butcher’s daughter who loses her parents in a sudden tragedy. Forced into a marriage to survive, she finds herself thrust into a noble family and a political landscape far beyond anything she imagined. Instead of bowing to fate, she chooses to fight it — even taking up her father’s butcher knife as a symbol of her will and courage.
Xie Zheng: Once a proud marquis, now a man stripped of title and power. He enters into a “fake” marriage with Changyu to silence rumors and protect himself from political enemies. But as their bond deepens, he becomes determined to reclaim his honor — and protect the woman who stands by him even in the darkest times.
Xie Zheng: Once a proud marquis, now a man stripped of title and power. He enters into a “fake” marriage with Changyu to silence rumors and protect himself from political enemies. But as their bond deepens, he becomes determined to reclaim his honor — and protect the woman who stands by him even in the darkest times.
A War-Torn Journey: As secrets about Changyu’s parents’ deaths come to light, and as Xie Zheng uncovers conspiracies within the court, the couple is forced apart by war, betrayal, and shifting loyalties. Their story becomes one of survival, emotional healing, and the fight to return to each other.
Cast & Characters
Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng
A fallen aristocrat haunted by his past, seeking redemption, justice, and the freedom to love. Zhang Linghe’s commanding presence and emotional depth make him a perfect fit for complex, heroic leads.
Tian Xiwei as Fan Changyu
Bold, righteous, and resilient, Changyu is the emotional heart of the story. Tian Xiwei brings a blend of innocence, strength, and fiery determination to this powerful female role.
Supporting Cast
While the full cast list has not yet been officially revealed, the drama is expected to feature seasoned actors in political, military, and court intrigue roles, given the scale of the story.
Production & Expectations
Zhuyu completed filming in April 2025 and is currently in post-production with large-scale battle scenes, detailed costume work, and character-driven storytelling at its core. Early promotional materials suggest: High-budget set designs, Impressive fight choreography, Strong romantic chemistry between leads, A story that balances political intrigue with emotional drama.
Why Zhuyu Is Already Gaining Attention
1. Star Power: The pairing of Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei — both fan-favorites in the historical romance genre — is one of the series’ biggest strengths.
2. Emotional, Layered Storytelling: The drama merges romance with loss, war, and mystery, offering more than a typical sweet historical love story.
3. Novel Adaptation Hype: The original novel has a loyal fan base praising its emotional writing, twists, and powerful female lead.
4. High Expectations for Production Quality: With its seasoned director and strong creative team, Zhuyu is expected to deliver strong visuals and gripping narrative pacing.
Zhuyu is shaping up to be a standout title among 2026 Chinese historical dramas — epic, emotional, and visually rich. With compelling characters, a beautifully tragic romance, and a storyline that spans war, politics, and destiny, this drama is perfect for fans of deep historical sagas.
Image Credit: X WeTV
