It appears reunions or second collabs is the ongoing “trend” in C-dramaland when it comes to casting leads for new and upcoming shows. Jing Tian and Vin Zhang Binbin’s reunion project has already been announced following their successful collab in Rattan. One rumoured re-pairing however, that of Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui for the historical drama Tigers Sniff The Rose 尚公主, has already sparked controversy and discord amongst their fans.
Update: On Jun 22, Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui were officially announced as the leads of Tigers Sniff the Rose with Lost You Forever director Zoe Qin at the helm.
Another Onscreen Couple Possibly Reuniting
After Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui’s onscreen pairing in 2024’s hit drama Blossom gained a lot of love, the two stars kept fan shippers happy with their cute interactions from variety shows to award shows. But news of a second collaboration (technically third, including Parallel World where they played supporting roles) has ended up dividing their fandoms. So much so that both actors’ studios have had to release statements warning against the continued slander from the other’s fans.
Tigers Sniff The Rose is expected to be a S-level drama produced by New Classics Media and Tencent. Adapted from the novel Esteemed Princess by Yi Ren Kui Kui, it follows the story between a princess and the prime minister.
Extreme Fan Behavior and Accusations
While a reunion would be a dream come true for “couple” fans, it does not sit well for solo fans who prefer to dismantle the pairing. As expected, top billing has also become a point of contention. Given that the story focuses on the princess, Meng Ziyi’s fans said she should rank first. Meanwhile the actor’s fans are expecting equal billing given Li Yunrui’s rise in popularity.
Amongst the rumours supposedly spreading include very personal attacks towards Meng Ziyi, insulting her as a woman and threatening her life. Meanwhile, Li Yunrui has found himself the subject of claims linking him to a horrific Hangzhou arson case that’s reported in the news.
Whatever the case, it seems the discord has now snowballed into all sorts of accusations and mudslinging from both fan groups.
Statements from Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui’s Studios
On June 12th, Meng Ziyi’s Studio issued at statement naming specific accounts spreading malicious rumours about her. They also said enough evidence has been collected and are now taking legal measures. Li Yunrui’s statement released on the same day condemned the rumours inappropriately linking him to “tragic events“ and online bullying. They also called on everyone to respect the law.
In an earlier statement two days prior, his Studio announced they’ve already started legal proceedings against some Netizens whose continued insults and slander have negatively impacted his reputation. “In this regard, we have taken legal measures to resolutely defend Mr. Li Yunrui’s legal rights and interests. At the same time, we also call on everyone to be cautious in their words and actions, and to collectively foster a harmonious online community.”
Although neither parties named the other in their statements, the accounts mentioned are believed to belong to the other party’s fan groups. While some Netizens feel things have gotten so ugly between the two fandoms that it might be better if they don’t reunite — assuming the casting rumors are even true — others see the recent statements as an attempt to ease tensions. Others wonder if all this is just a way to stir up buzz for the new project.
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HL
I will watch them both again… Both are professional actors who deliveries.
avarachika
That’s horrible whether this is to generate for buzz or not. Can’t even have a reunion without a cat fight first.
Arya
hope both of them don’t feel pressured by their fandom fights. if fans don’t like the reunion, they can just leave the fandom. who do they think they are to dictate actor’s career.
Coralie
Meanwhile my fav pairing has no chance of being reunited. Too much toxic fandom from both sides even when their chemistry was off the charts
HL
Oh, who?