Even 'Chasing Jade' and 'Ning'an Rumei' Lost! Zhang Linghe's Top 10 Highest-Rated Chinese Dramas: The Champion Scores 8.2, a 'White Moonlight' Masterpiece Still Unsurpassed

Zhang Linghe has risen to fame through acclaimed performances in dramas such as 'Ning'an Rumei,' 'Ai Ni,' and 'Chasing Jade,' portraying complex characters ranging from a calculating imperial tutor to a gentle traditional Chinese medicine doctor and a battlefield commander. Yet, the drama that claims the top spot in Zhang Linghe's filmography is not a recent release, but 'Canglan Jue,' the very role that introduced him to a wide audience as the immortal lord Chang Heng. This article ranks Zhang Linghe's leading or major roles in already aired Chinese dramas based on their public ratings as of August 4, 2026. In cases of tied scores, the number of raters and online discussion热度 are used to determine rankings.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 10: Jiang Qiaoxi in 'Cherry Amber' | Douban Rating: 5.7 'Cherry Amber' is a youth coming-of-age drama spanning campus life and adulthood, set in the 1990s. Zhang Linghe plays Jiang Qiaoxi, a gifted but introverted youth burdened by childhood trauma. He gradually learns what it means to be understood, accepted, and loved after meeting the cheerful Lin Qile. Jiang Qiaoxi speaks little, conveying emotions through subtle glances and reactions—a restrained modern role for Zhang Linghe. However, his screen time and romantic arc sparked controversy. Some viewers complained, 'I came for Zhang Linghe but barely saw him,' while others felt the adult Jiang appeared too thin, effectively conveying loneliness but lacking sufficient narrative space to explore his transformation. Zhang Linghe's naturally melancholic aura fits the character, but editing failed to give Jiang the presence expected of a lead.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 9: Jiang Haoyue in 'My Days with You' | Douban Rating: 5.9 'My Days with You' is a campus youth healing drama about the cheerful Lu Miao and the aloof genius Jiang Haoyue growing together. Zhang Linghe plays Jiang Haoyue, who lost a leg in an accident. Cold on the surface but deeply sensitive inside, he quietly supports Lu Miao. Their relationship evolves from childhood friends to lovers. This drama first drew attention to Zhang Linghe, with netizens noting, 'New boys keep coming, but Zhang Linghe stands out.' The chemistry between the leads felt natural. Jiang Haoyue suppresses his emotions, and while Zhang Linghe's performance was slightly raw at the time, his cold exterior contrasted with inner fragility, making this quietly devoted character memorable.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 8: Ji Tang / Shao Cang in 'Four Seas, Rekindled Hearts' | Douban Rating: 6.0 'Four Seas, Rekindled Hearts' is a comedic xianxia romance. Zhang Linghe plays Ji Tang, a hidden emperor targeted by enemies, who meets the eccentric doctor Nan Yan under the alias Shao Cang. They form a life-bonding spiritual seal and evolve from mutual suspicion to partners in adventure, building trust while uncovering conspiracies. Ji Tang appears cold and serious but reveals comedic contrast when pressured by Nan Yan and companions. Audience reactions were mixed—some called it 'a bit funny, okay for drama droughts,' while others felt 'Zhang Linghe in xianxia is somewhat fitting.' His tall, cold appearance matched Ji Tang perfectly. The serious emperor dragged into comedic chaos created humor, but the second half's pacing and clichéd xianxia tropes weakened the character's appeal, preventing Ji Tang from reaching Chang Heng's level of discussion.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 7: Pei Zhao / Xiao Yanzhi in 'Young Mistress' | Douban Rating: 6.1 'Young Mistress' blends mystery, court intrigue, and sweet romance, marking Zhang Linghe's first leading role. He plays Pei Zhao, secretly Prince Qi Xiao Yanzhi, who was framed in battle, surrendered his military power upon returning to court, and pretends to be a carefree rich young man while secretly investigating the truth. He teams up with the cross-dressed Su Ci to solve cases, gradually falling for her. Early viewers rewatching noted, 'He was already so handsome, but his acting was really stiff,' highlighting Pei Zhao's strengths and weaknesses. Zhang Linghe's ancient costume look already showed clear advantages, and his portrayal of a carefree young man had a refreshing charm, though emotional transitions and dialogue delivery were still somewhat immature. Nevertheless, Pei Zhao's intelligence, courage, and respect for the heroine's abilities made him likable, and he remains an entry-point role for many fans.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 6: Pei Wenxuan in 'Du Hua Nian' | Douban Rating: 6.1 'Du Hua Nian' centers on a married couple reborn, reliving their youth after dying due to misunderstandings. Zhang Linghe plays Pei Wenxuan, born into a humble family, who becomes a powerful chief minister. Sharp-minded and strategic, he's always stubborn yet soft-hearted toward Princess Li Rong. With youthful appearances, they engage in a 'married couple-style' romance full of teasing, bickering, and默契. Viewers said, 'The plot of hating each other in a past life, becoming lovers in this one really hits me,' appreciating their dynamic of scheming yet caring. Zhang Linghe portrayed jealousy, hurt, and deep affection more openly, with more natural comedic timing. Unfortunately, criticism of court subplots and love triangles diluted Pei Wenxuan's later impact.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 5: Gong Ziyu in 'Clouded Feather' | Douban Rating: 6.3 'Clouded Feather' is a suspenseful historical drama involving assassination and political intrigue. Zhang Linghe plays Gong Ziyu, the fourth young master of the Gong family, living carefree until his father and brother are murdered overnight, forcing him to take leadership. Lacking experience and trust, he undergoes harsh trials while investigating family conspiracies and grows through interactions with Yun Weishan, a killer from the Wufeng sect. Critics said Zhang Linghe 'can portray Gong Ziyu's pure clarity,' and viewers appreciated his 'sense of duty and sharp mind.' Not a traditionally strong male lead, his kindness, hesitation, and softness were questioned but also his most distinctive traits. Zhang Linghe captured the panic and helplessness of sudden adulthood, contrasting with his later composed authority, earning clear praise.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 4: Xie Zheng in 'Chasing Jade' | Douban Rating: 6.4 'Chasing Jade' centers on a love-after-marriage setup in a chaotic era and clearing wrongful accusations. Zhang Linghe plays Marquis Wu'an Xie Zheng, severely injured in a snowstorm and rescued by butcher's daughter Fan Changyu. They fake marriage for mutual goals. Xie Zheng hides his identity while investigating the Jinzhou massacre and gradually falls for Fan. He transforms from a frail survivor back into a decisive battlefield commander, showcasing vastly different auras. Xie Zheng became one of Zhang Linghe's most discussed recent roles. Viewers said, 'Zhang Linghe's Xie Zheng is straight-up god-tier!' praising his seamless shift between fragile brokenness and god-of-war sharpness. His physique, martial arts, and ancient costume design added credibility. Restrained and tender with Fan, then oppressive on the battlefield, this was one of Zhang Linghe's most complete ancient lead performances.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 3: He Suye in 'Ai Ni' | Douban Rating: 6.8 'Ai Ni' is a slow-paced modern romance. Zhang Linghe plays He Suye, a TCM doctor who meets hotel manager Shen Xifan, who suffers from insomnia. Gentle and stable, He Suye actively pursues her once he acknowledges his feelings. Without domineering control, he wins her heart through cooking medicine, meals, companionship, and respect, gradually entering her daily life. Many viewers see He Suye as an ideal partner, calling him the 'human ideal boyfriend,' and praise him as the most 'grounded' male lead in recent idol dramas. Zhang Linghe toned down the strong aura typical in his ancient roles, using a soft tone, natural smiles, and everyday gestures to portray He Suye, giving the romance a calming, healing quality, proving he can master low-conflict, atmosphere-focused modern roles.

Zhang Linghe's Strongest Drama No. 2: Xie Wei in 'Ning'an Rumei' | Douban Rating: 6.8 'Ning'an Rumei' is a historical drama combining rebirth, revenge, and court intrigue. Zhang Linghe plays imperial tutor Xie Wei, seemingly gentle and trusted by the emperor, but secretly carrying a complex heritage and a long-planned revenge. With Jiang Xue'ning, he alternates between calm guidance and obsessive,失控 moments, blending saintly demeanor with unsettling danger. Xie Wei's obsession—