Yang Yang Wins Praise for The Immortal Ascension

After facing harsh criticism for his performance in Fireworks of My Heart, which C-netizens infamously labeled as “greasy”, Chinese actor Yang Yang is making a strong comeback with his new xuanhuan drama The Immortal Ascension. Based on the very popular A Record of a Mortal’s Journey to Immortality, it’s pretty fast-paced with the first few episodes going through major plot arcs.

The Immortal Ascension follows Han Li, an ordinary young man who defies fate to ascend to immortality—a classic male-centric story in the cultivation genre. Casting was always going to be tricky, but may are pleasantly surprised. “Yang Yang is no longer greasy” even trended as Netizens praised his more grounded acting and natural charm that marks his comeback drama after two years. Audiences were also concerned about Jin Chen, given her mixed reception in Joy of Life 2. But the drama has been delivering—from its immersive fantasy sets to the visuals to the martial arts sequences.

While some book fans still feel Yang Yang’s handsome looks don’t match the novel’s “plain and unremarkable” Han Li, many agree that he captured the essence of the character, not just in appearance but also in emotionally charged scenes like the ones with Master Mo. Interestingly, The Immortal Ascension is directed by female director Yang Yang (similar sounding name, different person), known for A Dream of Splendor. She clearly knows how to draw out the best in him.

Before the drama aired, the 33-year-old actor posted a meme on social media to express that he’s actually very nervous about the premiere. But given its early success, it seems there was nothing to worry about after all.