The internet is obsessed with these C-Drama heartthrobs

We’ll admit it: one of the greatest pleasures of watching a good drama—besides a compelling storyline—is getting completely drawn in by the cast. And yes, we’re talking about the kind of leading men who feel almost too good to be true.

From chiselled features to that unmistakable on-screen presence, these C-drama actors have a way of making our hearts race, keeping us hooked and hitting “next episode” without hesitation.

With Chinese dramas continuing to dominate our watchlists, it’s no surprise we’ve found ourselves increasingly invested in a new wave of standout heartthrobs.

So if you’re looking for the C-drama actors currently fuelling our collective obsession, consider this your watchlist upgrade.

Dylan Wang: From Meteor Garden to global icon

Best known for playing Daoming Si in the 2018 Meteor Garden, Dylan has won the hearts of countless fans since his debut. 

Besides acting, Dylan has also released singles and held concerts in Macau and Bangkok. On social media, he shares his basketball fanatic side, posting photos of himself playing the sport and posing with members of the NBA, the United States basketball league. 

The actor-singer founded his own fashion brand, D.Desirable, in 2022, offering a lineup of modern streetwear designs, including T-shirts and accessories. Fast forward to January 2026, the Singapore Tourism Board teamed up with Dylan to debut D.Desirable’s first international pop-up store at Ion Orchard. 

Zhang Linghe: The breakout star captivating fans

Arguably the most popular C-drama actor of late, Zhang rose to fame for his roles in Story of Kunning Palace (2023). Outside of his on-screen roles, the Bulgari ambassador has repeatedly sent his fans into a frenzy wherever he sets foot. 

Most recently, the 28-year-old celebrity was ambushed by overly enthusiastic supporters who blocked his path at a rail station in China. According to online news sources and videos that have surfaced, the encounter was so chaotic that Zhang’s management agency had to issue a formal statement condemning such irrational behaviour. 

His flawless complexion has also become talk of the town. Zhang, who plays a war general in the Chinese historical drama Pursuit of Jade (2026), appeared in makeup that looked unrealistically perfect for his character. This made netizens cheekily dub him a “foundation general”.

Chen Zheyuan: A heartthrob with global appeal

Chen first entered showbiz as part of the boy group named Mr. Bio. Two years later, he made his acting debut in the youth drama All About Secrets (2017).

In the years that followed, Chen continued his acting career and rose to fame for his leading roles in the dramas Our Secret (2021) and Handsome Siblings (2020). After starring in romance drama Hidden Love (2023), fans around the world, especially in the Southeast Asia region, were swooned by his good looks and acting chops. 

Last year, Chinese streaming platform iQIYI named Chen as its International Global Ambassador, cementing his position as a rising star in Asia. In April, he joined the famous Thai snack brand TaoKaeNoi to become its Global Brand Ambassador. 

Tan Jianci (JC-T): Versatile talent on screen and stage

Tan, better known for his stage name JC-T, embarked on his music career as a member in the male idol group M.I.C in 2009. Even after each member began focusing on his own projects, Tan continued to explore his musical and dance talents, wowing his fans with singles such as IMMA GET IT and INU.

Over the years, Tan transitioned into acting, taking on numerous roles in dramas, including Under The Skin (2022) and Lost You Forever (2023). His hard work in acting and singing has earned him praise from fans and netizens, who compliment him on his strong performances in acting, dancing, and hosting. Major brands, including Roger Vivier, Rado and Michael Kors, have also worked with Tan, underscoring his rising popularity. 

Bai Jingting: The effortless charm of a C-drama favourite

Known for his roles in dramas such as The First Frost (2025) and New Life Begins (2022), Bai has amassed numerous awards and nominations since becoming an actor. At this year’s Weibo Awards, the 32-year-old actor walked home with the Most Influential Actor of the Year award, anchoring his popularity in the Chinese showbiz. 

Not only did his clean, cherubic, and effortless look captivate C-drama lovers worldwide, but international luxury brands such as Cartier and Versace are equally charmed, featuring Bai in their campaigns. 

Song Weilong: The ideal boyfriend of romance dramas

Blessed with defined features and a tall stature (he’s 1.85m), it’s no wonder Song is widely considered the “ideal boyfriend” by many netizens and fans. His standout looks have also made him one of the most famous faces in romance dramas. Some of his most notable works include Shine On Me (2025), Find Yourself (2020) and Go Ahead (2020). 

Besides starring in popular television and films, Song is also a well-loved celebrity among luxury brands. To date, the actor has been engaged by Gucci, Mikimoto and Guerlain, and appeared in their marketing campaigns. 

Neo Hou (Hou Minghao): From idol to acclaimed actor

Before setting foot in the Chinese entertainment industry, Hou spent time as a trainee at SM Entertainment in South Korea. Due to family matters, he returned to China and later debuted as part of the boy band Fresh Teenager Geek in 2014. After two years, he left the group and went solo.

Following that, Hou focused on acting, taking on roles in dramas such as A Girl Like Me (2021) and I Am Nobody (2023). Earlier this year, fast fashion label H&M named Hou as its Greater China brand ambassador.

Deng Kai: The rising star with a devoted fanbase

After graduating from the Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts in Shenyang, China, Deng Kai made his acting debut in Secret of the Three Kingdoms in 2018. 

Earlier this year, Deng starred in the hotly discussed drama Pursuit of Jade (2026) and his role as “mad prince” Qi Min earned him hordes of die-hard fans. In a recent viral video, his supporters were seen gathering around him on an airplane. Their actions were thought to have caused inconvenience to other passengers who were boarding the aircraft, and Deng even had to plead with the fans to return to their seats.