Not Yet Aired But Already Making Waves, Zhang Linghe's Character in Pursuit of Jade Achieves 100 Million Popularity Score

Kapanlagi.com - Enthusiasm for the latest costume drama Pursuit of Jade continues to rise even before its premiere. One of the main reasons is the character played by Zhang Linghe, namely Xie Zheng, who immediately captures the audience's attention.

Interestingly, this character has managed to achieve a popularity score of over 100 million on two major platforms even before the drama officially aired. This achievement has made Zhang Linghe's name increasingly talked about by fans of Chinese dramas.

1. Popularity Record Before the Drama Aired

The character Xie Zheng, played by Zhang Linghe, recorded an extraordinary achievement on the iQiyi platform. On February 27, 2026, right when the drama's airing date was announced, the popularity score of this character immediately broke the 100 million mark.

This record made him the first character to surpass that number even before the drama was released. Shortly after, other platforms also recorded similar achievements.

On Tencent Video, the popularity of the character played by Zhang Linghe again exceeded 100 million on March 5. This made him the first character in the history of that platform to reach that number before the drama's airing began.

2. Audience Enthusiasm Reflected in Reservation Data

Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng - copyright: weibo.com

Not only from the popularity score, the audience's interest in this drama is also evident from the very high number of reservations. By early March, Pursuit of Jade has gathered more than five million reservations on two major platforms.

This figure places the drama as one of the most anticipated projects in 2026. Many fans are curious to see how the character played by Zhang Linghe will develop on screen.

Especially since the teaser was released, discussions about the character Xie Zheng have become increasingly lively on social media. This popularity has made Zhang Linghe increasingly regarded as one of the young actors capable of attracting market attention.

3. The Contrasting Character of Xie Zheng

Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng - copyright: weibo.com

Xie Zheng is portrayed as a nobleman with a complex personality. He appears fragile, pale, and gentle on the outside, but is actually a strong figure with a past full of battles.

This character's contrast sparks curiosity among many viewers. Many believe that a character like this is very suitable for Zhang Linghe to play due to the calm aura he possesses.

The visual appearance of this character also attracts the attention of fans. The military costume with peacock feathers worn by Zhang Linghe has even become the subject of fan art that is widely circulated on the internet.

4. Zhang Linghe's Dedication to Mastering the Role

Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng - copyright: weibo.com

In order to portray Xie Zheng more convincingly, Zhang Linghe undertook various special preparations. One of them was losing about 15 pounds to appear more fragile and fitting for the character.

Additionally, his height of 190 cm was also considered very supportive of his appearance as a general in the costume drama. Many fans feel that Zhang Linghe's presence makes the character Xie Zheng feel more alive.

He also performed most of his own action scenes. Videos of his horse riding and martial arts training featuring Zhang Linghe even went viral among fans of Chinese dramas.

5. Fanbase Support and Industry Response

Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng - copyright: weibo.com

The popularity of this character is also driven by a very active fanbase. An online campaign called "Protect Xie Zheng" was even launched a few months before the drama aired.

Through this campaign, fans purchased various virtual gifts to boost the character's popularity. This enthusiasm shows just how strong Zhang Linghe's fanbase is right now.

Not only from fans, but the industry is also starting to pay significant attention. With the hype continuing to grow, many believe that Zhang Linghe's latest project has the potential to become one of the most talked-about costume dramas this year.

6. Ready to Air and in the Spotlight

Zhang Linghe as Xie Zheng - copyright: weibo.com

Pursuit of Jade is scheduled to premiere on March 6 at 6:00 PM simultaneously on iQiyi and Tencent Video. This drama has already made history as the first project to surpass 100 million popularity before its release on the two major platforms.

With such high enthusiasm, many viewers are curious whether this drama can meet expectations. Moreover, the character played by Zhang Linghe has already captured public attention.

If this initial response is any indication, it is likely that this drama will become one of the big hits of the year. All eyes are now on Zhang Linghe's performance as the mysterious Xie Zheng.

(kpl/chn)