artists

Xiao Zhan: From Idol Survival to Acting Superstar

By ChinaAlbums Published

Xiao Zhan, born on October 5, 1991, in Chongqing, has become one of the most prominent figures in Chinese entertainment. Rising to fame through the survival show X-NINE and achieving massive stardom through the drama The Untamed (Chen Qing Ling), he exemplifies the modern Chinese entertainer who spans music, acting, and cultural influence.

Early Life and Education

Xiao Zhan studied design at Chongqing Technology and Business University before entering the entertainment industry through the reality competition show. His design background has influenced his artistic sensibility and visual awareness throughout his career.

Rise to Fame

Xiao Zhan first gained attention as a member of X-NINE, formed through the reality show X-Fire in 2016. However, his true breakthrough came in 2019 when he starred as Wei Wuxian in The Untamed, a xianxia (fantasy cultivation) drama adapted from the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi. The show became a cultural phenomenon in China and across Asia, and Xiao Zhan’s portrayal earned him millions of devoted fans overnight.

The Untamed’s success led to what media called the “Xiao Zhan phenomenon,” with his Weibo following exploding and his commercial value skyrocketing to make him one of the most sought-after celebrities in China.

Musical Career

While acting has been his primary focus, Xiao Zhan has maintained a music career:

  • Multiple drama OST contributions that topped Chinese music charts
  • Solo singles including “Spot of Light” and “Bamboo Rock”
  • Concert performances showcasing his warm, mid-range voice
  • Fan-event musical performances that demonstrate genuine musical ability

His vocals are characterized by a warm, sincere quality that conveys emotion effectively within his comfortable range.

Acting Career Highlights

  • The Untamed (2019) - The role that launched his superstardom
  • Douluo Continent (2021) - Fantasy drama maintaining his momentum
  • The Oath of Love (2022) - Modern romance demonstrating dramatic range
  • Where Dreams Begin (2024) - Proved his abilities in contemporary drama

The 227 Incident and Recovery

In February 2020, Xiao Zhan became the center of a massive internet controversy when his fans’ actions against a fan fiction platform led to a broader backlash. The incident resulted in widespread boycotts and nearly destroyed his career. His careful, dignified response and eventual career recovery became a case study in crisis management in Chinese celebrity culture.

Cultural Significance

Xiao Zhan’s career raises important questions about fan culture, celebrity resilience, and the relationship between artistic merit and internet culture in modern China. His ability to recover from near career-ending controversy through consistent, quality work has been widely admired.

Where to Listen

Xiao Zhan’s music, including drama soundtracks and solo singles, is available on QQ Music, NetEase Cloud Music, Apple Music, and Spotify. His OST work provides an excellent showcase for his vocal abilities.