Zhang Linghe and Ding Yuxi Lose Out! Netizens' Verdict: 'Top 10 Favorite Male Leads in Chinese Dramas' Crowned by Him — Stellar Looks, Acting Quality, and Strong Fundamentals

The 2026 summer season of Chinese dramas has seen unprecedented competition, as heartthrobs return with new series! From Chen Wei ting and Zeng Shunxi's enduring charm in 'Nine Doors', to Zhang Linghe's striking Republican-era look in 'This Second on Fire', and standout performances by Song Weilong, Ding Yuxi, and He Yu, the combination of high颜值 and solid acting has left drama fans thrilled. Who captured viewers' hearts the most? According to the latest fan and netizen poll, the freshly released 'Top 10 Favorite Male Leads in Chinese Dramas' ranking is now out!

2026 Summer Season: Top 10 Favorite Male Leads in Chinese Dramas (Fan-Voted)

Rank | Actor | Character | Drama | Core Character Appeal 1 | Hou Minghao | Xiao Wuyi / Xiao Sheng | Quegu | Former crown prince with strong youthful aura and classical heroism 2 | Zhang Linghe | Murong Qingye | This Second on Fire | Handsome, tragic young warlord; stunning costume and intense emotional range 3 | Ding Yuxi | Zhang Haixia | Southern Archives | Calm and intellectual, willing to sacrifice himself for his brother 4 | He Yu | Xiao Huayong | Hundred Flowers Kill | Cunning yet deeply emotional; sharp classical look with strong presence 5 | Tan Jianci | Li Yifei | Love with Fireworks | Rich heir who falls from grace and becomes down-to-earth; natural comedic chemistry 6 | Song Weilong | Chen Yi | Wild Dog Bones | Rebellious exterior hiding helplessness and fragility; emotionally captivating 7 | Zeng Shunxi | Wu Laogou | Nine Doors | Witty and carefree, perfectly embodies the adventurous elder of a treasure-hunting family 8 | Chen Zheyuan | Ying Gua | Imperial Court Ballad | A young emperor in hiding, balancing authority and deep emotion 9 | Chen Wei ting | Zhang Qishan | Nine Doors | Commanding 'Buddha Lord' with ageless looks and undiminished charisma 10 | Cheng Lei | Mo Xiuyao | Mo Li | Cold, disabled prince with tragic backstory and deep, stoic personality

10th Place: Cheng Lei as Mo Xiuyao in 'Mo Li'

Cheng Lei, a rising star known for his cold demeanor, plays Mo Xiuyao, a tragic prince who lost his legs due to an accident. His naturally aloof aura perfectly matches the character's restrained nature, showcasing a strong personal style.

9th Place: Chen Wei ting as Zhang Qishan in 'Nine Doors'

Returning to the 'Old Nine Doors' series after many years, Chen Wei ting reprises his role as the 'Great Buddha Lord' Zhang Qishan, maintaining his commanding presence and timeless charm. Fans marvel at his ageless looks, praising his flawless portrayal of a tomb-raiding heir and military officer.

8th Place: Chen Zheyuan as Ying Gua in 'Imperial Court Ballad'

Chen Zheyuan takes on the challenging role of a 14-year-old emperor whose power has been usurped. Outwardly timid, he secretly becomes a sword-wielding justice-seeker rooting out corruption. His balanced portrayal of authority and tenderness earned widespread acclaim.

7th Place: Zeng Shunxi as Wu Laogou in 'Nine Doors'

Having previously brought Wu Xie to life, Zeng Shunxi now plays Wu Xie's grandfather, Wu Laogou, in the same series. His clever and lively performance captures the character's wit and agility, winning over adventure drama fans.

6th Place: Song Weilong as Chen Yi in 'Wild Dog Bones'

Song Weilong plays Chen Yi, a rebellious-looking yet gentle-hearted character. He powerfully conveys the character's tragic fate and emotional fragility, once again proving his strength in modern idol dramas.

5th Place: Tan Jianci as Li Yifei in 'Love with Fireworks'

Despite initial skepticism, Tan Jianci won over audiences with his solid acting. He portrays a once-arrogant heir who gradually becomes grounded, delivering a likable and humorous performance. His bickering scenes with the female lead are especially captivating.

4th Place: He Yu as Xiao Huayong in 'Hundred Flowers Kill'

He Yu, known for his striking classical looks and strong acting, delivers a standout performance in 'Hundred Flowers Kill'. He fully embodies the character's deep affection and cunning nature, with sharp fight scenes and commanding presence securing him a top-four spot.

3rd Place: Ding Yuxi as Zhang Haixia in 'Southern Archives'

Ding Yuxi shines in the summer lineup, playing the calm and composed Zhang Haixia. His character's willingness to sacrifice himself for his brother creates a deeply touching persona that wins countless fans.

(Zhang Haixia portrayed by Ding Yuxi in 'Southern Archives'. Image via Weibo)

2nd Place: Zhang Linghe as Murong Qingye in 'This Second on Fire'

The highly popular Zhang Linghe makes a stunning debut in the Republican-era drama 'This Second on Fire', playing the tragic young warlord Murong Qingye. Despite mixed reviews for the drama overall, Zhang Linghe's elegant costume and powerful emotional performance win over a large audience.

(Murong Qingye portrayed by Zhang Linghe in 'This Second on Fire'. Image via Weibo)

1st Place: Hou Minghao as Xiao Wuyi in 'Quegu'

Hou Minghao claims the top spot, hailed as the 'Heaven-Chosen Ancient Man'! In 'Quegu', he plays Xiao Wuyi, the former crown prince, whose classical look radiates youthfulness and heroism. With exceptional appearance and acting, he wins the fan vote without a doubt.

Fans rave: 'Hou Minghao's Xiao Wuyi is truly heaven-sent — just standing there exudes the grace and aura of a crown prince; the fight scenes are absolutely stunning.' 'I tuned in for the plot but got completely hooked on Hou Minghao's Xiao Wuyi! Overflowing with youthful charm, every gesture and costume detail is a plus.' 'Support Hou Minghao as Xiao Wuyi — his chemistry with Amy is unexpectedly strong! Their intense eye contact is full of drama, perfectly capturing restrained yet deep emotion.' 'As an原著 fan, I'm extremely satisfied — Hou Minghao completely brought my imagined Xiao Wuyi to life. His natural delivery and vocal performance are deeply immersive.' 'After finishing 'Quegu', I'm utterly captivated by Xiao Wuyi. Hou Minghao's classical posture is so elegant — he truly embodies the grace of a divine favorite.' 'Hou Minghao is born for historical roles. He portrays Xiao Wuyi with both royal dignity and youthful heroism — his looks are simply flawless!'

(Xiao Wuyi portrayed by Hou Minghao in 'Quegu'. Image via Weibo)