LayarHijau.com — Actor Ren Jialun has once again captivated audiences with his stellar performances in dramas like One and Only and Love of Nirvana. Most recently, he starred alongside Song Zuer in the fantasy drama The Demon Hunter’s Romance, which aired its final episode on April 25.
The following contains spoilers for the ending of The Demon Hunter’s Romance.
In this drama, Ren Jialun plays Xuan Ye, a descendant of the Xuanbao clan, who ultimately must return to the Wuyou realm to protect the Divine Tree. Although Song Zuer’s character Banxia eventually regains all her memories of their love, fate keeps them apart. Viewers were left heartbroken by the inevitably tragic ending.
Earlier in the story, Xuan Ye erases Banxia’s memory to protect her due to his identity as half-human, half-demon. He sacrifices himself to maintain the balance of the Wuyou realm, using the Guiyuan Sword to sever all karmic ties—causing everyone to forget he ever existed.
What makes it even sadder is that although Xuan Ye planned to leave quietly, Banxia recalls everything thanks to the Echo Shell. She breaks down in his arms, unwilling to let him go. In one of the most poignant scenes, Xuan Ye uses magic to summon snow—symbolizing his desire to grow old with Banxia, as she once said that lovers who have seen snow together are as good as having grown old together.
Unfortunately, reality says otherwise. Xuan Ye departs, and Banxia tearfully sees him off. She remains single for the rest of her life. When Xuan Ye returns to the Wuyou realm, it is shown blooming with flowers and vibrant life. The ending caption reads: “Heaven and earth hold love, and all things flourish endlessly.”
Interestingly, storyboard artist Zhang Jianbo previously stated that the drama was originally supposed to have a happy and hopeful ending. He noted that film and television often serve to mend real-life disappointments. However, the final decision to alter the ending was reportedly made at the last minute by iQIYI executives.
According to Upmedia, the production team used AI analysis to gauge discussion levels around various endings. The result showed that tragic or open-ended conclusions generated the most buzz. Happy endings were seen as too idealistic and lacking in dramatic tension. An open ending also allows room for a potential sequel—hinting that The Demon Hunter’s Romance could return for Season 2.
Still, this decision drew backlash from fans who felt let down. Many commented, “This ending makes me not want to rewatch the show,” and “If you go with an open ending, at least give us some hope—this was pure tragedy.”
Despite receiving overall positive reviews and praise for the chemistry between Ren Jialun and Song Zuer, the ending remains a hot topic among viewers.