On February 25, Chinese outlet 163 reported that Li Xian and Yang Zi are drawing major public attention amid rumors of a romance. The two stars have been suspected of turning their on-screen chemistry into real-life affection after collaborating on three dramas: “Go Go Squid!” “Flourished Peony,” and “In the Name of Blossom.”
The latest wave of speculation erupted during the Lunar New Year holiday, when netizens noticed that Yang Zi’s parents appeared to be wearing the same style of red jacket as Li Xian. The jacket reportedly belongs to a sports brand for which Li Xian serves as an ambassador. This coincidence fueled online chatter suggesting the actor may have already met Yang Zi’s family.
Online discussions quickly escalated, with some netizens speculating that Li Xian had “dumped” Liu Yifei to pursue Yang Zi. Previously, Li Xian and Liu Yifei were rumored to have developed feelings for each other after starring together in “Meet Yourself”. Industry insiders claimed Li Xian fell for Liu Yifei after filming wrapped and actively pursued her. The pair were said to share mutual affection beyond that of colleagues, and Li Xian allegedly ended a previous relationship to focus on Liu Yifei.
Netizens also pointed to alleged “dating evidence,” including the two reportedly using the same car, attending a private birthday party for host Li Xiang, and following each other on Weibo. Despite the prolonged rumors, neither Li Xian nor Liu Yifei publicly confirmed or denied the speculation.
However, others argue that matching jackets are far from solid proof of a relationship. It is common for popular clothing items to overlap, and both Li Xian and Yang Zi have previously denied dating rumors, emphasizing that they are simply close colleagues. Their frequent social media interactions such as birthday messages and public support for each other’s projects have only fueled the enthusiasm of “shipping” fans, some of whom have even formed dedicated fan communities rooting for the pair to become a real-life couple.
Born in 1991, Li Xian rose to fame through romantic dramas such as “Go Go Squid!” “Will Love in Spring,” “Meet Yourself,” and “Flourished Peony.” With his masculine visuals, broad shoulders, and athletic build, he is widely regarded as one of the most popular leading men in Chinese entertainment today.
Yang Zi, born in 1992, began her career as a well-known child actress and is now considered one of the most sought-after actresses among the post-90s generation. Over the years, her appearance has frequently become a topic of public debate. She has faced persistent plastic surgery rumors, with critics speculating about various cosmetic procedures. Yang Zi has not directly addressed these allegations but has stated that she lost weight to improve her appearance. Nonetheless, online commentary about her evolving looks continues to generate controversy.
As rumors swirl once again, the public remains divided: are Li Xian and Yang Zi truly more than co-stars, or is this simply another case of fans reading too deeply into coincidences? Until any of the actors speak out, speculation is likely to continue dominating headlines in C-entertainment.
