Short drama Returning Pearl (还珠) gives a twist to the classic My Fair Princess as it follows top actress Lin Suisui, played by Hu Lianxin, who unexpectedly “travels” into the drama. Instead of becoming the heroine, she finds herself as a palace maid and must repair the damaged storyline to survive in this world. She meets Jing Yuan, portrayed by Luo Yizhou, a guard who becomes her unlikely ally. Iconic characters such as Xiao Yanzi (Jin Zixuan), Ziwei (Xu Yuan Li Na), and the Fifth Prince (Yan Xujia) appear in supporting roles to complement the new storyline. Actor Wei Wei appears as Emperor Qianlong.
Jointly produced by Mango TV and Hunan TV, the show is supervised by He Xiuqiong, daughter-in-law of My Fair Princess’ creator Chiung Yao. Returning Pearl looks to be part of the network’s push for premium short dramas. Whether praised for creativity or criticized for changing a classic, it’ll certainly be interesting to see.
It is set to premiere on November 7, 2025 on Mango TV, followed by a broadcast on Hunan TV starting November 11.
