Liu Yifei's New Drama: Romance with Zhang Ruoyun, American Citizenship Criticized with '125% Tax'

"Fairy Sister" Liu Yifei's starring dramas "Story of Rose" and "To the Windy Place" both became hits. After a two-year hiatus, she will take on the lead role in the new historical drama "Salty Snow." The selection for the leading male role has also begun, with recent reports suggesting that Zhang Ruoyun, who rose to fame with "Joy of Life," edged out Xu Kai for the role. Zhu Yilong, known for his role in "The Story of Minglan" where he had a secret crush on Zhao Liying, is also vying for the part. Liu Yifei's charm needs no further demonstration. However, having moved to the United States with her mother at a young age, Liu Yifei is already a U.S. citizen. With the recent intense trade battles between China and the U.S., some critics have mockingly suggested that Liu Yifei's earnings from "Salty Snow" should be taxed at 125%, stirring discussions.

In 2022, Liu Yifei starred in the historical drama "A Dream of Splendor" with Chen Xiao, marking her return to Chinese dramas. She quickly set a pace of hitting dramas once a year, including 2023's "To the Windy Place" with Li Xian, and 2024's "Story of Rose" with Lin Gengxin, Peng Guanying, Wallace Huo, and Lin Yi. All were well-received by audiences, ensuring quality entertainment. Initially, "Salty Snow" sought Zhao Liying for the lead role, but after "The Legend of Fei," Zhao Liying shifted her focus to films, leaving her disinterested in historical idol dramas for the moment. Thus, the "Salty Snow" crew turned to the well-reputed Liu Yifei.

Initially, "Salty Snow" planned to pair Xu Kai with Liu Yifei, but fans were concerned that Xu Kai's acting wouldn't match up to Liu Yifei's. Recently, reports suggested that Zhang Ruoyun might take the male lead instead, leading to widespread approval. Zhang Ruoyun's stellar performances have made several dramas hits, including "Joy of Life," "Sword Snow Stride," and "Ordinary Glory." Fans are eager to see what sparks might fly from his pairing with Liu Yifei. Another strong candidate for the male lead, Zhu Yilong, has recently won the Golden Rooster Award for Best Actor with the film "Lighting Up The Stars" and earned widespread acclaim for his role in "Lost in the Stars," enjoying immense popularity as well.

"Salty Snow" is adapted from the novel of the same name by Chinese author Tianxia Chen'ai. The story depicts female salt merchant "Su Jingyao" (played by Liu Yifei) returning to Xuancheng as a wealthy widow. Secretly, she collaborates with "Shen Yibai" (played by Zhang Ruoyun), a royal inspector sent to investigate salt affairs. Together, they establish the "Dayi Bank," delve into commerce, gather evidence, jointly tackle corruption in the salt industry, and develop enterprises. They also work to restore the tarnished honor of their families.