Who Is Zhang Linghe? 7 Things to Know About China’s Newest Power Player

China’s new leading man

Few young actors in China have risen as quickly as Zhang Linghe.

In just a few years, the actor has gone from a promising newcomer to one of the country’s most recognizable leading men, headlining some of the biggest C-dramas of the decade while building an impressive portfolio of fashion and lifestyle partnerships.

Today, his face appears everywhere, from blockbuster television series and fashion campaigns to beauty advertisements and jewelry billboards.

So who exactly is Zhang Linghe? Here’s everything you need to know about China’s newest power player.

1. Zhang Linghe is one of China’s biggest young actors

Born in 1997, Linghe is a Chinese actor who has become one of the most prominent faces of the current C-drama generation.

Over the past several years, he has steadily built a reputation as a leading man capable of balancing romantic dramas, historical productions, and large-scale streaming hits. His growing popularity has made him one of the industry’s most in-demand stars.

2. He studied electrical engineering before entering the entertainment industry

Before finding fame, Linghe’s future looked very different.

He studied electrical engineering at Nanjing Normal University, pursuing an academic path that had little connection to the entertainment industry. Unlike many actors who come from performing arts backgrounds, he entered acting from a more traditional educational route.

3. ‘Love Between Fairy and Devil’ changed everything

If there is one project that introduced Zhang Linghe to a global audience, it is Love Between Fairy and Devil.

Released in 2022, the fantasy romance became one of the most talked-about Chinese dramas of the year and helped fuel the growing international popularity of C-dramas. The series attracted viewers across Asia, North America, and Europe, bringing unprecedented visibility to its cast.

4. Bvlgari, Gucci, Chopard, and more are part of his fashion portfolio

He serves as a Brand Ambassador for BVLGARI, one of the world’s most prestigious jewelry houses. He is also a Brand Ambassador for Gucci Fashion and Gucci Beauty, making him one of the Italian brand’s most visible faces in China.

His credentials extend even further through partnerships with Swiss jewelry and watchmaker Chopard and French accessories house Roger Vivier.

7. He’s also a major force in beauty and skincare

Fashion is only one piece of Linghe’s endorsement empire. The actor has also become a sought-after ambassador in the beauty and skincare industry, partnering with brands across both luxury and mass-market categories.

His portfolio includes Lancôme, where he serves as a skincare and brand ambassador, as well as the Chinese cosmetics company Carslan. He also works with skincare giants CeraVe and Inoherb.