LayarHijau.com – Sohu, one of China’s most established and reputable news portals, has released a list of the Top 10 most popular male characters from Chinese dramas in the first half of 2025. Unlike ordinary rankings that rely on fan polls or temporary social media hype, Sohu uses a heat index system based on concrete data—such as search frequency, social media interaction, video views, and media mentions.
This makes the list more reliable and a true reflection of which male characters have captured the hearts of audiences, especially female viewers. These aren’t just handsome faces—they’re characters with emotional depth and compelling backstories. From quiet protectors and tragic heroes to lovable modern men who heal hearts, this list has it all.
Let’s dive into the characters that left viewers swooning, crying, and completely obsessed:
❤️ Top 10 Male Drama Characters That Captivated Viewers in Early 2025
Zang Hai (played by Xiao Zhan) – Legend of Zang Hai (藏海传)
A mysterious man hiding a deep, tragic past. After witnessing his family’s massacre as a child, he conceals his true identity and rises through the imperial court to exact revenge. Though calm and unreadable on the outside, Zang Hai carries heavy grief inside. Viewers love him for his strategic mind, quiet pain, and unwavering determination.
⭐ Popularity Score: 9.26
Tang Qi (played by Tan Jianci) – Filter (滤镜)
A brilliant Ph.D. doctor whose heart gets entangled with Su Miao, a kind-hearted woman—only to fall for another woman named Fang Jin, who turns out to be the same person. His emotional confusion leads to a sweet but chaotic journey filled with bizarre twists—including having to act romantically with alpaca and bronze statue versions of his love. Adorable, confused, and lovable.
⭐ Score: 9.24
Xu Qi’an (played by Wang Hedi) – Guardians of the Dafeng (大奉打更人)
A modern office worker suddenly transported into an ancient dynasty—only to become a criminal. But with wit and street-smarts, he climbs his way up to become a respected constable. He’s loud, clever, and socially bold—a "social butterfly" type with high emotional intelligence who turns crises into charm.
⭐ Score: 9.22
Wei Shao (played by Liu Yuning) – The Prisoner of Beauty (折腰)
A war hero shaped by childhood trauma. He initially refuses to marry Xiao Qiao, the daughter of his enemy—but falls for her at first sight. His transformation from a cold general to a doting “wife slave” is deeply touching. His height, power, and rare vulnerability make him irresistible.
⭐ Score: 9.20
Su Yishui (played by Deng Wei) – Love of the Divine Tree (仙台有树)
In his first life, Su Yishui was a cold and broken man until he met his mentor, Mu Qingge, who sacrificed herself for the world. In his next life, he reunites with her as Xue Ranran, his own disciple. His silent devotion, pain, and deep longing move viewers who can’t help but wish he’d get the love he deserves.
⭐ Score: 9.18
Sang Yan (played by Bai Jingting) – The First Frost (难哄)
He may act arrogant and sarcastic, but he’s a loyal man who’s been in love with Wen Yifan, his former high school classmate, for years. He shows his love in quiet ways—buying her things she’s too shy to purchase, installing night lights after learning she sleepwalks, and always being there. If she takes one step toward him, he’ll take the remaining ninety-nine.
⭐ Score: 9.17
Fan Yue (played by Ao Ruipeng) – Moonlight Mystique (白月梵星)
The Demon King of the Extreme Realm. Initially, he only wants to use Bai Shuo, a human girl, for his goal. But he ends up falling deeply in love with her. Cold and aggressive on the outside, Fan Yue is fiercely protective and self-sacrificing. The kind of man who’d say, “If anyone dies, I’ll die before you.”
⭐ Score: 9.15
Jiang Changyang (played by Li Xian) – Flourished Peony (国色芳华)
Known as the “most corrupt official under heaven,” he’s flamboyant, charming, and greedy. But beneath the playfulness lies a surprisingly kind heart. With cheeky smiles and clever tricks, he’s the kind of lovable rogue who keeps audiences grinning.
⭐ Score: 9.14
He Suye (played by Zhang Linghe) – The Best Thing (爱你)
A Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor who cares for Lu Anran, a hotel manager suffering from a serious illness. Unlike a domineering CEO type, He Suye is gentle, patient, and quietly dependable. He delivers herbal remedies, cooks calming meals, and offers consistent warmth—making him the dream boyfriend material for many viewers.
⭐ Score: 9.11
Jiu Xuanye (played by Ren Jialun) – The Demon Hunter’s Romance (无忧渡)
A half-demon monster hunter burdened by the tragic death of his family. He struggles between his human heart and demonic blood. His love for Ban Xia, a mortal woman, is filled with sorrow and sacrifice. Each battle leaves him wounded, but he never gives up. His story ends in heartbreak, leaving viewers in tears.
⭐ Score: 9.09
These men aren’t just beloved for their looks or presence, but for their stories, their emotional vulnerability, and the way they love, protect, and grow. Each represents a different kind of ideal partner—from the damaged hero who needs healing to the quiet romantic who expresses love through actions, not words.
Perhaps that’s why these characters resonate so deeply with female viewers—because behind all the fantasy, we all secretly long for love that’s tender, real, and worth holding onto.
So, who’s your favorite from the list? Or do you have another 2025 drama crush that deserves a spot here?