From Age 15 to 40: Zhang Ziyi’s TV Debut in "The Rebel Princess"!

As an internationally acclaimed actress, the name "Zhang Ziyi" is undoubtedly familiar to you.

In 2013, Zhang Ziyi collaborated with director Wong Kar-wai on the film "The Grandmaster," where her portrayal of "Gong Er" earned her the Best Actress award at the 50th Golden Horse Awards, the 33rd Hong Kong Film Awards, and a total of 12 acting accolades. From then on, Zhang Ziyi has won nearly every major Chinese-language film award, reaching a career peak few can match.

Born on February 9, 1979, in Beijing, Zhang Ziyi began learning dance at a young age and later enrolled in the Central Academy of Drama. While still a student, she was discovered by director Zhang Yimou and skyrocketed to fame after starring in "The Road Home." She further cemented her status with her role in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," which brought her to the global stage.

Since then, Zhang Ziyi has worked with renowned Chinese directors like Zhang Yimou, Ang Lee, and Wong Kar-wai, starring in films such as "Hero," "House of Flying Daggers," "2046," and "Memoirs of a Geisha." In 2005, she was honored as a lifetime member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, adding another pinnacle to her illustrious career.

However, despite her dominance in film, Zhang Ziyi has rarely ventured into television—until now.

In 2021, we welcome the year’s most anticipated drama: Zhang Ziyi’s television debut—"The Rebel Princess"!

Zhang Ziyi’s First Leading Role in a TV Series
"The Rebel Princess"
Now Streaming on iTalkBB Chinese TV Box

From Age 15 to 40

Adapted from the best-selling novel "The Imperial Coroner" by Mei Yuezhe, "The Rebel Princess" is set in a grand "palace legend" narrative. The novel has been widely praised, reprinted numerous times over the years, and sold millions of copies, with online readership exceeding 100 million. Fans hail it as "the classic of palace intrigue literature."

The story follows Wang Xuan, the daughter of a noble family, who is forced into a political marriage at 15 with the low-born general Xiao Qi. Amidst turmoil, their unwavering loyalty leads them through power struggles and court conspiracies, ultimately uniting them at the zenith of authority in an epic tale of love and ambition.

The series adapts the novel with a faster pace suited to modern audiences, blending palace intrigue, power plays, romance, and human drama into a sweeping spectacle.

A Star-Studded Cast Beyond Zhang Ziyi

Beyond Zhang Ziyi’s leading role, "The Rebel Princess" boasts a powerhouse production team. Co-director Hou Yong, a veteran cinematographer, worked on "The Grand Mansion Gate" and "The Road Home," while Cheng Yuanhai, the other director, was an assistant director for "Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace." Their photographic expertise ensures stunning visuals.

The cast also includes three-time Hong Kong Film Award winner Kara Wai, classic "White Snake" actress Angie Chiu, and Yu Hewei, the only actor to portray both Liu Bei and Cao Cao in Chinese cinema. This drama promises a feast for the eyes!

The costumes and makeup are meticulously crafted. Zhang Ziyi’s character alone wears over 30 outfits, each tailored to her age and journey—ranging from youthful simplicity to regal grandeur, with every stitch designed to withstand close-up scrutiny.

The sets are equally immersive, from palace halls to secret chambers, with every lighting choice and layout meticulously planned for cinematic impact.

But one thing is certain: Health and safety always come first!

"The Rebel Princess" offers far more than just Zhang Ziyi—here’s why you’ll love it!

Log in to iTalkBB Chinese TV Box to stream 2021’s blockbuster drama "The Rebel Princess" now!!

Beyond her TV debut, Zhang Ziyi is also a mentor on the reality show "I Am the Actor Season 3," which you can watch on iTalkBB Chinese TV Box.

Watch Zhang Ziyi shine as an actress in "The Rebel Princess" and as a mentor in "I Am the Actor Season 3"—only on iTalkBB Chinese TV Box!

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