After receiving strong praise for her performance in You Are Beautiful Like Stars, Tan Songyun returns to the screen with the fantasy drama 《逍遥》- Xiaoyao. Co-starring rising actor Hou Minghao—who gained attention through Ascending to the Blue Clouds—and featuring Zhao Liying in a special guest and producer role, the series quickly gained momentum, surpassing one million online reservations before broadcast. However, despite its initial end-of-year release plan, industry sources revealed that the drama has been postponed to next year. The shift is reportedly connected to the rescheduled release of Hou Minghao’s other historical drama Jadebone Tea, prompting producers to avoid competition in the same time slot. This sudden change sparked dissatisfaction among Tan Songyun’s fans, leading to heated discussions online.
Tan Songyun, who entered the industry at fifteen, has built a solid career with works such as Living a Good Life and Waiting for You in Heaven. Her breakout came from her role as Consort Chun in Empresses in the Palace. Known for her bright, lively acting style, she has grown into a dependable leading actress. Xiaoyao marks her first attempt at a xianxia fantasy drama in her twenty-year career—one of the main reasons audiences are excited for this new direction.
The drama is adapted from an original literary IP and presents a vivid, fantastical world dominated by mythical creatures. Tan Songyun plays Xiaoyao, a girl who accidentally wanders into the secluded Demon Valley, disrupting the delicate balance of its inhabitants. Hou Minghao’s character, Hongye, the newly awakened king of the demon clan, takes on the responsibility of protecting his people. As the two uncover secrets surrounding the mystical Jade Nectar Spring, their journey explores themes of desire, power, and destiny, adding emotional depth to traditional fantasy elements.
Zhao Liying’s appearance and involvement as producer have further raised expectations for the series. Although Xiaoyao was initially slated for a year-end release, updated plans now point to a post-Lunar-New-Year premiere. Analysts note that this change is largely influenced by Jadebone Tea, whose production team insisted on releasing the drama within the year. To prevent audience diversion and ratings competition, Xiaoyao’s team made the strategic decision to postpone.
The delay has caused visible frustration among Tan Songyun’s fans, who worry that the long gap since her previous drama The Story of Shujin People may affect her market visibility. Meanwhile, Hou Minghao—despite uneven reception—has already appeared in several projects this year, maintaining a steady presence. These contrasting circumstances intensified debates among fans, turning Xiaoyao’s schedule adjustment into a trending topic.
