Chinese TV drama shatters records with global viewership surge

The highly anticipated Chinese TV drama Joy of Life 2, a sequel to its successful predecessor, premiered on Tencent Video and CCTV-8 on May 16, captivating audiences both domestically and internationally.

Starring renowned actors Zhang Ruoyun, Li Qin, and Chen Daoming, among others, the series, adapted from Mao Ni's popular online novel, has quickly become a sensation, setting new viewership records across multiple platforms.

The storyline follows Zhang Qing, a student delving into literary history, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery through writing a novel, seeking the approval of his professor. Through his novel, the audience is introduced to the enigmatic protagonist Fan Xian, whose adventures in the fictional country of Qingguo unfold with intrigue and excitement.

Since its release, Joy of Life 2 has witnessed an unprecedented surge in viewership, comments, and shares, surpassing Tencent's popularity index and breaking records on Tencent Video. The show's popularity has transcended borders, with Disney distributing the series internationally on its streaming platform Disney+, where it has quickly become the most-watched drama from Chinese mainland.

The series has also garnered significant attention on platforms like YouTube and Viki, attracting two to three times the viewership of other acclaimed Chinese dramas. With plans for broadcast in Japan and a multi-language release on Disney+ in various countries and regions, the global reach of Joy of Life 2 continues to expand.

Hou Xiaonan, the producer of the series and CEO of China Literature Group, notes the overwhelming success of the first season and the strategic collaboration with Disney for a global release of the second season. With accolades from viewers worldwide and a strong foundation in over 27 countries and regions, Joy of Life 2 stands as a testament to the growing influence of Chinese television dramas on the international stage.