iQIYI’s 2026 C-Drama Lineup: A Blend of Martial Arts, Romance, and Intrigue

iQIYI is preparing a robust first half of 2026 with a slate of historical C-dramas. These productions promise a captivating mix of martial arts action, intricate conspiracies, and compelling romance, following characters navigating secrets and forging unexpected alliances. Several series are already available for pre-order on the iQIYI platform.

“The Ingenious One 2” – A Return to the Jianghu

Set to release in mid-March, “The Ingenious One 2” stars Chen Xiao and Mao Xiaotong.¹ The story follows Yun Xiang, who, after three years of peaceful seclusion in a coastal town, is drawn back into the world of martial arts (jianghu) by a new and unfolding plot. He will be joined by allies Kou Lianyi and Jin Shiliang as they confront a rising power that threatens the established order. The series has already garnered over 1.8 million reservations on iQIYI.

“Rebirth of the Ice Lake” – Revenge and Political Intrigue

“Rebirth of the Ice Lake,” starring Li Junrui and Huang Yang Tiantian, is scheduled for early April. The drama centers on Chu Qiao, saved by Yan Xun after the Battle of Ice Lake. Believing Yue Jian to be deceased, she embarks on a path of revenge while secretly plotting to assassinate Yan Xun. Notably, this C-drama will be broadcast simultaneously on both iQIYI and Tencent Video.

“Jia Ou Tian Cheng” – A Contractual Marriage with a Twist

Expected at the end of April, “Jia Ou Tian Cheng” features Ren Jialun and Wang Herun. Adapted from Shi Si Lang’s novel, the story revolves around Lu Tianqiao, a descendant of the War Ghost clan burdened by the curse of “five deficiencies.” He becomes entangled with Xin Mi, a disciple of a celestial sect facing a destiny that threatens her future husband. A chance pact leads to a contractual marriage that gradually evolves into a relationship of mutual redemption. This series has already secured over 2 million reservations on the platform.

“Yi Ou Chun” – Unraveling a Family Mystery

Likewise slated for release at the end of April, “Yi Ou Chun” stars Xu Kai, Zhou Ye, and Jeremy Tsui. The narrative follows Xie Qingyuan’s return to the Xie family to investigate his mother’s unjust death. He finds an initial ally in Shen Run, a senior official, and together they work to uncover the truth and dismantle the conspiracies surrounding them.

“Feng Ying Ran Mei Xiang” – A Double Life and Dangerous Alliances

Scheduled for mid-May and directed by Guo Jingming, “Feng Ying Ran Mei Xiang” stars Wang Churan and Li Hongyi. The story features Mei Jiu, who harbors a secret second personality – An Jiu, a skilled assassin. To uncover the truth about her mother’s past, she disguises herself as a man and infiltrates the Konghe army, forming a strategic, and ultimately dangerous, partnership with Commander Chu Dingjiang.

“Zhen Niang Zhuan” – Preserving a Cultural Heritage

Expected at the end of May, “Zhen Niang Zhuan” stars Yang Zi and Han Dongjun. The drama highlights the art of Huizhou ink manufacturing, a recognized intangible cultural heritage. Li Zhen, the youngest daughter of a once-prestigious family, challenges tradition by attempting to revive this knowledge, historically reserved for sons. She partners with Luo Wenqian to protect this heritage and combat industrial monopolies.

iQIYI’s 2026 C-drama lineup offers a diverse range of stories, promising viewers a captivating journey through historical settings, intricate plots, and compelling characters. The high number of pre-reservations suggests strong anticipation for these upcoming releases.