Overseasidol.com — The highly anticipated Chinese drama “The Lead” officially premiered on May 10, 2026, airing on CCTV-1 during prime time while also streaming on Tencent Video.
The series quickly gained attention for its compelling narrative centered on traditional Chinese performing arts.
Backed by major production houses and recognized as a key cultural project, the drama features a stellar cast including Zhang Jiayi, Liu Haocun, Qin Hailu, and Shawn Dou.
Renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou serves as the supervising producer, adding further prestige to the project.
Adapted from the award-winning novel by Chen Yan, the story follows Yi Qing’e, later known as Yi Qin’e, a Qin Opera performer whose life journey spans nearly five decades.
From her humble beginnings as a rural girl, she rises through perseverance to become a leading figure on the stage.
Her journey begins when she is introduced to the opera world by her uncle and joins a local troupe.
Despite numerous setbacks and challenges, her determination and talent earn her recognition and mentorship from seasoned performers.
Over time, she evolves into a prominent artist in the provincial opera scene.
As society changes, Yi Qin’e faces both personal and professional trials, navigating relationships, competition, and shifting cultural landscapes.
Yet, she remains committed to her craft, embodying the spirit of dedication and artistic integrity.
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