Many TV stars have become famous because of a popular drama. For instance, Xiao Zhan, Wang Yibo, and Gong Jun are top male stars, while Dilireba and Yang Zi are top female stars. However, some stars choose a different path. They don’t follow the traffic route but rely on their skills and strong performances to win fans. Here are 10 male TV stars who “made it big without relying on traffic.”
Li Xian: The Late Bloomer with a Solid Career
Li Xian is an excellent example of a late bloomer. Before his breakout role in Go Go Squid! in 2019, his only well-known work was River God. He spent eight years in the industry, mostly in supporting roles, before his big break. After gaining fame, Li Xian didn’t rush into more lucrative roles. Instead, he focused on honing his craft. He took a careful approach to choosing his projects, starring in dramas like If We Met Again, Windy Places, and Spring Lovers.
Li Xian’s dedication to his art is evident in his work. He has also ventured into films, starring in Antique Bureau Mid-Game, Inland Criminal Police, and Three Words. His decision to invest in the mini-series The Remaining 11 shows his commitment to quality over quantity. In an industry often driven by popularity and trends, Li Xian stands out for his thoughtful choices and consistent performance quality.
Bai Jingting: The Independent Star
Bai Jingting’s journey to success is unique. He isn’t a professional actor and doesn’t belong to any agency. He navigates the entertainment industry independently. His breakthrough came with the campus dramas Fleet of Time and Summer Is Coming. Although he played supporting roles, he left a lasting impression on audiences. His participation in the variety show Star Detective showcased his wit and humor, earning him a large fan base.
Since then, Bai Jingting has chosen roles in high-quality dramas over “traffic dramas.” His performances in The Rise of Phoenixes, Ordinary Glory, Glory Ping Pong, and 8090 have been highly praised. His versatility is evident in his roles in You Are My City Camp, The Beginning, and Daily Life. Bai Jingting focuses on the characters he plays rather than chasing popularity, making him a rare talent in the competitive entertainment industry.
Wu Lei: From Child Star to Leading Actor
Wu Lei began his career as a child star and has been in the spotlight since a young age. Known for his impressive acting skills, he gained the title “GM Brother” at just 16 with his role as Fei Liu in Nirvana in Fire. As he grew older, Wu Lei continued to choose significant roles in popular costume dramas like The Long Ballad and Star Han Canlan. These roles helped him shed the child star label and establish himself as a serious actor.
Wu Lei’s versatility is one of his greatest strengths. Besides costume dramas, he has starred in highly acclaimed series like Cross Fire and Set Sail: When the Wind Rises. His film collaboration with Hu Ge in Worth the Trip further showcased his range. Unlike many of his peers, Wu Lei doesn’t chase “idol traffic dramas” but carefully selects scripts that challenge and enhance his acting skills, proving his wide appeal and talent.
Zhang Ruoyun: The Versatile Performer
Zhang Ruoyun is another star who has made it big without relying on the typical traffic route. He gained recognition for his role in Celebrating More Than Years, a drama that showcased his exceptional acting skills. Zhang’s ability to bring depth to his characters has earned him a loyal fan base. His performances in Sparrow, The Evolution of Our Love, and Snow Leopard have further solidified his status as a versatile and talented actor.
Zhang Ruoyun’s dedication to his craft is evident in his diverse choice of roles. He consistently delivers strong performances, making each character memorable and distinct. His commitment to quality over quantity has set him apart in the entertainment industry.
Zhu Yilong: From Underdog to Movie Emperor
Zhu Yilong’s rise to fame is a testament to his perseverance and talent. Initially known for his role as a gay male god in Guardian, Zhu Yilong transitioned to more mainstream roles and gained widespread recognition. His performances in My True Friend, Reunion: The Sound of the Providence, and The Story of Minglan have showcased his range and depth as an actor.
Zhu Yilong’s ability to adapt to different genres and characters has earned him the title of “movie emperor.” His commitment to his roles and his consistent delivery of powerful performances make him a standout in the industry.
Chen Xiao: The Steady Performer
Chen Xiao is known for his steady rise in the entertainment industry. He has starred in several acclaimed dramas such as Swordsman, The Romance of the Condor Heroes, and Nothing Gold Can Stay. Chen Xiao’s ability to portray a wide range of characters with ease has made him a favorite among viewers.
Chen Xiao’s focus on delivering quality performances rather than chasing fame has earned him respect and admiration. His dedication to his craft is evident in the care and effort he puts into each role.
Deng Lun: The Charismatic Star
Deng Lun’s charm and acting prowess have made him a household name. He gained fame through his roles in Sweet Dreams, My True Friend, and Ashes of Love. Deng Lun’s ability to connect with his audience through his characters has earned him a loyal fan base.
Deng Lun’s choice of roles reflects his desire to challenge himself and grow as an actor. His performances are consistently engaging and heartfelt, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Luo Jin: The Dedicated Actor
Luo Jin is another actor who has made a name for himself through hard work and dedication. Known for his roles in The Princess Weiyoung, Love is the Best, and The Way We Were, Luo Jin’s performances are marked by their sincerity and depth.
Luo Jin’s commitment to his roles and his ability to bring characters to life have made him a respected figure in the industry. His focus on quality and authenticity sets him apart from many of his peers.
Hu Ge: The Resilient Star
Hu Ge’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by resilience and talent. Known for his roles in Nirvana in Fire, The Disguiser, and Goodbye My Princess, Hu Ge has consistently delivered powerful performances that have earned him critical acclaim.
Hu Ge’s ability to overcome personal challenges and continue to excel in his career is a testament to his dedication and passion for acting. His work remains highly regarded, and he continues to be a beloved figure in the industry.
Yang Yang: The Multifaceted Talent
Yang Yang has demonstrated his versatility through a variety of roles in dramas such as The King’s Avatar, Love O2O, and You Are My Glory. His ability to excel in both contemporary and historical dramas has made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry.
Yang Yang’s commitment to his craft and his willingness to take on diverse roles have set him apart. His performances are always engaging, and he continues to grow as an actor with each new project.
These stars demonstrate that success in the entertainment industry can be achieved through talent and dedication rather than just following trends. Their careers are a testament to the value of hard work, careful choice of projects, and genuine passion for their craft. It’s refreshing to see such dedication in an industry often driven by popularity and trends. Their stories inspire aspiring actors and show that true talent always finds a way to shine.
