The digital single "Spotlight," released by Xiao Zhan in 2020, secured a Guinness World Record as the highest-selling digital track in China. Born on October 5, 1991, in Chongqing, he transitioned from a professional background in graphic design and photography to become one of the most prominent performers in the Chinese entertainment industry today.
Early Background and Creative Beginnings
Before his rise to national prominence, Xiao Zhan pursued formal education at the Chongqing Technology and Business University. During his time at the Modern International Art Design Academy, he engaged with various artistic disciplines, including violin and painting. He served as a member of the school's literary committee and participated in the university choir. By 2012, he co-founded a photography studio, working as its primary photographer. Following his 2014 graduation, he continued to build a professional career as a graphic designer and photographer before his shift toward performance art.
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Xiao entered the entertainment sector in 2015 via the survival program X-Fire, which led to his membership in the group X Nine. His acting career began in 2016 with the youth fantasy series Super Star Academy. Throughout the following two years, he took on several roles in various projects, including a character in the fantasy drama Battle Through the Heavens and a supporting role in the historical series Oh! My Emperor. His participation in the production of The Wolf, filmed in 2017, provided him with early exposure to large-scale drama sets and complex character development.
Breakthrough and Mainstream Success
The 2019 xianxia drama The Untamed marked a significant turning point in his career. His portrayal of Wei Wuxian generated extensive viewership, eventually surpassing 10 billion views by the end of 2021. He subsequently appeared in the film Jade Dynasty, which topped the Chinese box office upon its release. In 2021, he expanded his performance portfolio by debuting in the eight-hour stage play A Dream Like a Dream, where he portrayed the central character, Patient No. 5. He maintained this role through 72 performances across various cities, including Beijing and Shenzhen, through May 2023.
Musical Achievements and Recent Projects
Xiao Zhan’s output extends to his work as a recording artist. His debut studio album, WM, was released in 2024 and subsequently earned the "Album of the Year" recognition at the QQ Music Awards. He has consistently participated in major television productions, including The Youth Memories, The Longest Promise, and Sunshine by My Side. In 2025, he returned to cinema with roles in Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants and Gezhi Town, while also appearing in the television project The Legend of Zang Hai.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 October 1991, Chongqing
- Education: Chongqing Technology and Business University
- Breakthrough Role: The Untamed (2019)
- Debut Studio Album: WM (2024)
- Guinness World Record: Highest-selling digital single in China
- Professional background: Photographer and graphic designer
Questions readers ask
Did Xiao Zhan participate in theater productions?
Yes, he made his theater debut in 2021 playing the lead in the drama A Dream Like a Dream, performing in over 70 shows.
What was his primary career before acting?
Before his debut in 2015, he worked as a professional graphic designer and photographer.
