The Wanted Detective: Wang Xingyue Leads New Historical Suspense Drama

The Wanted Detective (定风波), previously titled Calming Waves, is set to premiere on iQIYI on August 1, 2025. Starring Wang Xingyue and Julia Xiang Hanzhi who just had their respective costume dramas this year; The Wanted Detective, directed by Zhao Jintao, brings them to the case-solving genre. It follows Xiao Beiming, a once-celebrated detective who returns from exile to uncover the truth behind a series of murders—and the conspiracy that ruined him.

Plot: A Framed Detective Makes a Comeback

Xiao Beiming was once hailed as Qi’s best detective, known as the “Godly Constable.” But on his wedding day, he was shockingly accused of murdering his mentor and committing treason. Forced to flee and suffering from a mysterious cold poison, he disappears from the public eye.

Three years later, Beiming returns to the capital, secretly forming an investigation team with his former junior Zhong Xueman, a sharp and fearless female constable. Together with a group of loyal and skilled partners—each bringing their own strengths in medicine, disguise, brute force, and wit—they begin to crack a string of murder cases linked to a shadowy villain known only as the “Night Evil”. The cases weaving in elements of Northern Song Dynasty folklore and court power struggles.

Meet the Investigation Team

Aside from Wang Xingyue, the detective squad includes Julia Xiang Hanzhi as female detective Zhong Xueman, Chen Youwei as Feng Qingzhuo, the team’s calm and capable doctor, Zhang Nan as Huo Dairong, a master of disguise, He Luoluo as Tong Shuang, a fiercely loyal constable and Deng Kai as Zhuge Kongyun, the group’s comic relief with unexpected insights. Actors Shao Bing, Tang Zhenye, and Bao Jianfeng also take supporting roles.

Why the Change in Title to The Wanted Detective

While it may be an ensemble type drama, it’s led to some friction among Wang Xingyue fans who protested that Xiao Beiming’s central role wasn’t highlighted enough in iQIYI’s promotional posters with descriptions emphasizing the team ensemble. Apparently, this backlash led to updated promotional materials and a change in title from Calming Waves to a clearer importance on the male protagonist with the international title: The Wanted Detective.