LayarHijau.com — After a two-year hiatus due to a tax evasion scandal that led to her being “frozen” from the entertainment industry, Song Zu’er has officially made her comeback to the screen. She reasserted her presence through a lineup of new drama projects, including the hit costume drama The Demon Hunter’s Romance, which just concluded with high ratings. But Song didn’t stop there—she immediately launched her latest historical drama The Prisoner of Beauty, which premiered on May 13, 2025, and instantly broke records.
The Prisoner of Beauty, which she stars in alongside actor Liu Yuning—previously known for A Journey to Love and The Story of Pearl Girl—captured the audience's attention within just 10 minutes of its premiere. Tencent Video recorded that The Prisoner of Beauty set the record as the fastest-rising drama in popularity in 2025. The strong chemistry between Song Zu’er and Liu Yuning, the tightly written plot, and solid acting performances quickly pushed the drama into trending status across various social media platforms.
Adapted from a Popular Novel: The Conflict Between Two Prominent Families
According to Upmedia, The Prisoner of Beauty is adapted from a well-known novel by Peng Lai Ke. The story is set during a time of war and turmoil, beginning 14 years before the main storyline. At that time, the Qiao family patriarch, Qiao Gui (played by Jin Shijie), broke his promise to support the Wei family in battle, resulting in the deaths of three generations of the Wei family. The youngest member, Wei Shao (Liu Yuning), witnessed it all from inside a wooden crate and has harbored deep resentment ever since.
Fourteen years later, both families attempt to reconcile through a political marriage. Qiao Gui initially planned to marry off his eldest granddaughter, Da Qiao (He Hongshan), to Wei Shao. But since Da Qiao was already in love with someone else, her cousin Xiao Qiao (Song Zu’er) volunteered to take her place—for her cousin’s happiness and to bring peace between the two rival families.
Emotional Acting by Song Zu’er and Jin Shijie Moves Netizens to Tears
Unlike her innocent role in The Demon Hunter’s Romance, this time Song Zu’er plays Xiao Qiao—a beautiful, intelligent young woman with a sharp political mind, raised under the guidance of her grandfather Qiao Gui. One of the most emotional scenes appears early in the drama, when Qiao Gui realizes that his beloved granddaughter will marry Wei Shao in place of Da Qiao.
In their farewell scene, the ailing Qiao Gui looks into Xiao Qiao’s eyes. From a small nod, he understands that everything was orchestrated by her to uphold the family’s honor. With a heavy heart, he says, “This is fate.” In their final conversation, he adds, “You are more capable than your uncles and father, but sadly, you were born a woman.” Grasping her hand with trembling fingers, he continues, “I don’t know if you’re a gift from the heavens… or a curse.” The scene went viral and brought many viewers to tears.
A Story of Politics, Vengeance, and Sacrifice
The Prisoner of Beauty offers more than romance and political intrigue—it also explores complex family relationships and deep personal sacrifice. Viewers were touched by the bond between Xiao Qiao and her grandfather, who share an unspoken understanding amid the weight of history and ongoing conflict.
The long-standing grudge between the Qiao and Wei families adds an emotional layer to the plot. The Wei family sees Qiao Gui as a traitor responsible for their downfall. Thus, Xiao Qiao’s decision to marry into the Wei family is filled with danger. Qiao Gui realizes this marriage is the only way to peace but cannot hide his concern for his granddaughter’s fate.
With its cinematic visuals, emotionally charged conflict, and powerful performances from Song Zu’er, Liu Yuning, and Jin Shijie, The Prisoner of Beauty is predicted to become one of the most influential costume dramas of the year.