The highly anticipated historical drama Shadow Love (与晋长安) has officially begun production, featuring popular actors Song Yi and Ryan Cheng Lei in the lead roles. The drama kicked off on May 13, 2024, marking a significant reunion for the duo after their collaboration in the upcoming series Follow Your Heart, filmed in 2023. In Follow Your Heart, Cheng Lei took on the role of the second male lead, while Song Yi’s character was paired with Luo Yunxi.
Song Yi and Cheng Lei’s Backgrounds and Previous Works
Song Yi first captured audience attention with her debut as Xiang Ling in the 2010 costume drama The Dream of Red Mansions. Over the years, she has become well-known for her performances in period dramas. Some of her most notable roles include Fan Ruoruo in Joy of Life, Su Tan’er in My Heroic Husband, and Liu Yuru in Destined. Now 34, Song Yi continues to captivate fans with her elegant portrayals of historical characters.
Cheng Lei, who is four years younger than Song Yi, entered the scene a bit later but quickly established himself in the period genre. He gained recognition for his role as Gong Shangjue, the second male lead in My Journey to You. Cheng Lei’s growing popularity and strong performances have made him a sought-after actor in historical dramas.
The Cast and Production Team
Shadow Love boasts an impressive supporting cast, including singer-turned-idol Bi Wenjun, who plays the second male lead. Other notable actors such as Shi Ce, Darren Chen, and Ji Xiaobing also star in the drama, while Du Chun and Cheng Xiao make special appearances. This project marks a significant reunion between Song Yi and director Deng Ke, who previously worked together on My Heroic Husband. Deng Ke is also known for directing The Legend of Shen Li, another adaptation of a Jiulu Feixiang novel, similar to Shadow Love.
Plot and Character Dynamics
Shadow Love promises an intriguing and complex storyline. Song Yi takes on the role of Li Shuang, a brave and skilled female general tasked with uncovering a spy within a month. This character is a departure from Song Yi’s usual refined roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Li Shuang saves a man with amnesia and severe injuries, bringing him back to the military camp. This mysterious character, played by Cheng Lei, adds depth and suspense to the unfolding drama.
Song Yi’s ability to portray strong and multifaceted female characters is evident in her past roles, such as the formidable Yu Manli in The Disguiser. However, her portrayal of Li Shuang in Shadow Love allows her to explore new dimensions of heroism and resilience. The chemistry between Song Yi and Cheng Lei, established during their work on Follow Your Heart, is expected to enhance the on-screen dynamic and engage the audience further.
Shadow Love is poised to be a captivating addition to the world of historical dramas. With a talented cast, a seasoned director, and a compelling storyline, the series has all the elements to become a hit. Fans of Song Yi and Cheng Lei are eagerly awaiting their reunion on screen and the opportunity to see these beloved actors bring their characters to life in a new and exciting way. As production continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable viewing experience.
