Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui rose to fame through their performances in the Chinese historical drama “Nine Layers of Purple.” The two are set to collaborate again in “Princess Shang.” However, there are rumors of discord due to disputes over lead positions. On the 23rd, Tencent will hold its investment conference, and while Meng Ziyi is confirmed to attend, Li Yunrui will be absent. Many speculate their relationship is no longer as close as it once was due to disagreements over lead roles and mutual accusations involving their fans, raising questions about whether their second collaboration can replicate the strong chemistry of “Nine Layers of Purple.”
Before starring in “Nine Layers of Purple,” Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui were relatively unknown in the entertainment industry. As a result, the drama didn’t attract much attention before airing. Surprisingly, the gripping storyline, solid acting, and their strong on-screen chemistry led to a viewership exceeding 600 million, making it the biggest dark horse hit of the year! After their breakout success, Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui appeared together at luxury brand events and co-starred on the variety show “Keep Running.” Owing to their effective synergy, they rapidly signed on to collaborate again for “Princess Shang.”
However, with their rising fame, securing the top billing has become a critical issue affecting future opportunities. Even though the official social media account has yet to announce the lead positions, their respective fan bases have already begun heated debates online. Fans of Meng Ziyi argue that “Princess Shang” is a female-led drama and disparage Li Yunrui as merely “the live-in son-in-law.” Meanwhile, fans of Li Yunrui insist that their positions should be at least equal. This escalated to personal attacks between fans, leading Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui to take legal action against each other's fans, leaving onlookers stunned.
Initially, the public was curious whether external factors would change the relationship between Meng Ziyi and Li Yunrui. A closer look at Tencent’s schedule for the investment conference on the 23rd shows that Li Yunrui will be filming on set and will not attend the event but will later head to Paris for Men’s Fashion Week. On the other hand, Meng Ziyi is confirmed to attend the conference, which almost confirms her lead role as the primary female protagonist. This has sparked concerns and widespread discussion about whether Li Yunrui might withdraw from the project.
Source: UDN Style