'The Rise of Phoenixes' fans reveal why the Chinese drama is one of the world's most-watched shows

Having been dubbed as one of the best dramas of 2018, 'The Rise of Phoenixes reached millions of people worldwide, thanks to Netflix.

If you are new to the world of Chinese drama, 'The Rise of Phoenixes' is the one show, all fans of the genre would compel you to watch. Having been dubbed as one of the best dramas of 2018, this gem reached millions of people worldwide, thanks to Netflix. From Argentina to South Korea, fans of this drama really are spread all over the world.

A period drama, complete with opulent sets, politically vibrant plotlines and beautiful and talented actors, it is no surprise that ‘The Rise of Phoenixes’ is loved by many. The hero of the story is the calculating and ambitious sixth prince of the ruling Tiansheng dynasty, who wears the facade of a carefree drunkard, Ning Yi. Portrayed brilliantly by Chen Kun, who easily slips in and out of the façade,  he is one of the most compelling characters to have appeared in any show in a long time.

Karen Ly, a hard-core fan of the show, tells MEAWW: Ning Yi “is fiercely cunning and passionate, tough as nails, but he can also be hilarious, vulnerable and sexy as hell. [He is] such a wonderful character, who is now one of my all-time favorites.” Another fan, Jeeneeewoo, also concedes, “Chen Kun’s performance was outstanding. Every actor in this drama is excellent! This drama is a work of art. It is a privilege to be able to watch it anytime. I feel the need to pay each time I watch it, and every penny is worth it.”

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Joanne and Noah prepare to live together as Sasha and Morgan face a connection neither has acknowledged.
4 hours ago
A New Year’s Eve celebration brings old friends together before the night takes an unexpected turn.
6 hours ago
‘The Shards’, starring Kaia Gerber and Homer Gere, aired its season finale on September 9
12 hours ago
‘The Rainmaker’ follows underdog lawyer Rudy Baylor, played by Milo Callaghan, who takes on powerful opponents in court
14 hours ago
CBS’ latest sneak peek for ‘Cupertino’ features Busy Philipps along with Mike Colter and Rachel Keller in the lead
15 hours ago
'The Office' spin-off released all the episodes of its second season on September 9, 2026, on Peacock
15 hours ago
'Chicago Fire' will return with Season 15 on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET on NBC
17 hours ago
‘Rivals’ fans finally have a date to circle for the return of Season 2
17 hours ago
Scott Speedman's ‘R.J. Decker’ Season 2, set to premiere on September 15, will shed light on R.J.’s childhood
18 hours ago
The full trailer for Mike Flanagan’s ‘Carrie’ reveals a familiar story in a new setting
19 hours ago