Zhang Linghe Gained 8kg of Muscle for New Role; Latest Leaked Photos Surpass His Iconic “Marquis Wu’an” Look
Actor Zhang Linghe has seen a meteoric rise in popularity following his performance in the drama Pursuit of Jade, gaining 5.36 million followers in just 20 days. Currently, he is filming the highly anticipated historical dramaReturn of the Phoenix(Gui Luan). To better embody his character, Zhang reportedly gained 8kg of muscle, resulting in a noticeably more robust and athletic physique.
Recent leaked photos from the set have sent the internet into a frenzy. Dressed in traditional white mourning robes, Zhang exudes a “broken aesthetic” (fragile yet powerful beauty) that many fans claim surpasses his legendary portrayal of Marquis Wu’an in Pursuit of Jade.
A Rising Star: From “Love You” to Global Sensation
Reflecting on his journey, Zhang Linghe achieved breakout success last year as a traditional Chinese medicine doctor in the idol drama Love You. Despite competing against heavy hitters like Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan’s First Frost (Nan Hong), Zhang emerged as the “dark horse” of the year. His unique charm and solid acting skills helped his total fan count surpass the 10-million mark within a single year.
The “Return of the Phoenix” Reveal: A New Level of Visuals
In the latest stills from Return of the Phoenix(Gui Luan), Zhang Linghe is seen in pristine white funeral attire with a matching headpiece. His eyes convey a profound sense of grief and loneliness—a stark contrast to his previous roles.
Speculation suggests these scenes depict his character, Xiao Li, mourning his mother. One particular shot of him holding a white umbrella and looking back has been hailed as a “masterclass in atmosphere,” with netizens crowning him as the “God of Historical Dramas.”
The “Campus Legend” of Nanjing Normal University
Long before his fame, Zhang Linghe was a known “campus god” at Nanjing Normal University. Standing at 190cm (6’2″), he was frequently photographed by students in the cafeteria and library. Even as a student, his striking presence made him a local celebrity, long before he became a household name on the silver screen.