LayarHijau.com – Filming for the drama Overdo, starring Zhang Linghe and Wang Churan, officially began on June 25. However, the series has already become a hot topic on Chinese social media—not because of its storyline or production quality, but due to Wang Churan’s billing position as the second billing. The hashtag #王楚然这一秒过火二番 (“Wang Churan Overdo Second Billing”) quickly trended on Weibo.
Wang Churan is known for her leading roles in dramas like Are You the One and Hidden Shadow. Because of her track record, many fans questioned why an actress of her caliber was listed below Zhang Linghe in promotional materials and official posters.
“She’s already been a leading actress multiple times—why is she placed lower now?” one netizen wrote.
“They’re equally popular. Why not co-leads like in other dramas?” added another popular comment.
Still, others defended the decision, arguing that the quality of the role matters more than the billing order. In Overdo, Wang Churan plays two characters: Ren Susu, a gentle but cold-hearted woman, and the mysterious Fang Mulan. Many see this dual role as a major acting challenge that showcases her growing range.
“What matters more is the character and the quality of the performance,” one user said.
“Zhang Linghe has had a breakout year. What matters is that they look amazing together,” another fan commented.
“Their chemistry in the promo shots is off the charts—I can’t wait to see them act together!” added another.
In the Chinese entertainment industry, billing order isn’t just a formality—it reflects status, future project offers, and public perception. That’s why Wang Churan’s second billing has sparked such emotional reactions among fans.
Outside the controversy, however, Overdo remains a highly anticipated project. Adapted from a novel by Fei Wo Si Cun, the drama is set in Republican-era Shanghai and promises a love story filled with secrets, revenge, and tragedy. Wang Churan stuns in a retro look with short hair, while Zhang Linghe plays a foreign-educated doctor with a cold and mysterious charm. Their visuals and presence already drew attention during the opening ceremony.
There’s no confirmed release date yet, but with a star-studded team and so much buzz, Overdo is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about Chinese dramas in the second half of the year.
Note: There was some confusing from the term second female lead as it made people thought there was another first female lead. Wang Churan is the first female lead, but she is second billing in this drama.