Ancient costume heartthrob's dance goes wrong? Zhang Linghe 'has no dance cells,' calls practice for new drama 'a breakdown'

Zhang Linghe, known for his popular historical dramas, takes on a new persona in "This Second is Too Much," a Republican-era series where he plays the cold and obsessive young master Mu Rong Qingyi. Opposite him, Wang Churan portrays Ren Susu, a revenge-seeking daughter of a ruined merchant family. Their characters are entangled in a tumultuous love story filled with intense emotional conflict.

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He has a deep emotional foundation, not just for love, but also for family and understanding of those who suffer.

The drama is adapted from Fei Wo Si Cun's novel "If I Hadn't Met You This Second." It tells the story of Mu Rong Qingyi, who, after being wrongly switched at birth, suffered abuse. He is later saved by Ren Susu, the daughter of a pharmacist, but his actions inadvertently lead to her family's destruction. Years later, Ren Susu fakes her death, renames herself Fang Mulan, and returns to the Mu Rong family as a fiancé to exact revenge, all while struggling with her lingering feelings for Qingyi.

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The character's emotions fluctuate greatly. It was very satisfying to play, but filming the crying scenes used a lot of tissues because my nose often ran faster than my tears.

Zhang Linghe described his character as more than just possessive and domineering. He highlighted Qingyi's deep emotional core, encompassing love, family, and empathy for the suffering, which adds layers to his portrayal. Wang Churan, playing both Ren Susu and Fang Mulan, shifts from a fragile young lady to a calculating avenger. Her performance, particularly her subtle expressions of hidden pain and strategy, has earned her praise from netizens.

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I have no dancing talent. I was still learning to dance before the wrap-up.

Beyond the dramatic romance, the series also features a significant dance sequence that symbolizes the evolving relationship between the leads. Zhang Linghe admitted to struggling with the choreography, continuing to practice until the end of filming. Wang Churan playfully teased him about their occasional missteps and the need to re-shoot scenes, which tested their chemistry and stamina. The production also included lighthearted moments, like Wang Churan's prank on the director with a fake cockroach-filled chewing gum, which brought laughter to the set.

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You are too wicked!