In the vibrant world of Chinese entertainment, few stars shine as brightly and consistently as Wu Lei (吴 磊), also known as Leo Wu. At such a young age, he has captivated audiences, growing up on screen and evolving into a versatile performer admired by fans and industry professionals alike.
A Prodigious Beginning
Wu Lei’s journey in the entertainment industry began when he was just a child. Born on December 26, 1999, in Shanghai, China, he entered the spotlight at the tender age of six. His early start in acting saw him taking on numerous roles in television series and films, showcasing a natural talent that would pave the way for his future success. His experience as a child actor gave him a unique perspective and a deep understanding of his craft from a very young age, as can be seen from one of his interviews as a child actor.
In China, the title of “Nation’s Little Brother” is often attributed to Wu Lei. This affectionate nickname reflects his popularity and the public’s perception of him as a beloved figure. Wu Lei earned this title due to his early start in the entertainment industry, his charming on-screen presence, and his endearing personality. His roles in various television dramas and films, along with his down-to-earth demeanour and dedication to his craft, have endeared him to audiences.
Thoughts on Acting
Wu Lei has often expressed his passion for acting and his desire to continually improve. In interviews, he emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotional truth in his performances. “Being an actor means breakthrough. This is the ultimate goal. Breaking through one’s own limitations again and again,” he said in an interview last year with GRAZIA magazine. This commitment to his art has been a driving force behind his diverse and compelling body of work.
Praise from Peers and Directors
Wu Lei’s dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed by his colleagues. Renowned directors and fellow actors frequently praise his professionalism, work ethic, and ability to bring depth to his roles. Director Kong Sheng, who worked with Wu Lei in Nirvana in Fire, is reported to have praised Wu Lei’s ability to understand and embody his character’s nuances even at a young age. Co-stars often speak of his collaborative spirit and his willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a scene’s success.
Notable Projects
Over the years, Wu Lei has amassed an impressive portfolio of successful projects, showcasing his versatility across various genres. Let’s take a look at some of his notable works.
1. Nirvana in Fire (2015)
- Douban Rating: 9.4
- MyDramaList Rating: 9.1
- Cast: Hu Ge, Liu Tao, Wang Kai, Wu Lei
- Where to watch: Viki, Amazon Prime Video
- Genre: Historical, Political, Drama
- Episodes: 54
Wu Lei portrayed Fei Liu, a highly skilled martial artist and the loyal bodyguard of the main character, Mei Chang Su. His performance was well-received, showcasing his ability to handle action scenes and embody a complex character despite his young age.
This role marked an important step in Wu Lei’s career, highlighting his potential and versatility as an actor. His portrayal of the character earned him critical acclaim and a massive fan base, establishing him as a rising star in the Chinese entertainment industry.
2. Cross Fire (2020)
- Douban Rating: 7.9
- MyDramaList Rating: 8.6
- Cast: Lu Han, Wu Lei, Dai Lu Wa, Song Yan Fei
- Where to Watch: WeTV
- Genre: Time Travel, Youth, E-Sports
- Episodes: 36
Cross Fire weaves a captivating tale across two timelines. Gamers from different eras, Xiao Feng and Xiao Bei, connect through the virtual world of the game. Initially driven by a desire to fulfil his late brother’s dream of winning championships in the game, Xiao Bei’s passion for competition evolves into his own. Despite facing limitations, his unwavering resolve to play adds a unique layer of struggle to his journey.
The drama showcased Wu Lei’s ability to portray both the character’s competitive fire and his resilience in the face of adversity. His portrayal resonated with the youth, emphasizing his ability to connect with contemporary themes and audiences. The role allowed Wu Lei to explore a modern, dynamic character, broadening his acting range and solidifying his place in the industry.
3. Our Times (2021)
- Douban Rating: 7.7
- MyDramaList Rating: 8.0
- Cast: Wu Lei, Hou Ming Hao, Mao Xiao Hui, Xiang Han Zhi
- Where to Watch: WeTV
- Genre: Life, Youth, Drama, Entrepreneurship
- Episodes: 36
Set against the backdrop of China’s technological boom, Our Times follows the journeys of four young adults who navigate love, friendship, and ambition in the world of IT. Wu Lei played the role of Xiao Chuang, an ambitious young man navigating the technological and economic changes in China during the 1980s.
Wu Lei’s performance captures the character’s dramatic and significant growth arc beautifully, showcasing his transformation from a carefree student to a dedicated innovator facing the challenges and rewards of the tech industry. Wu Lei’s nuanced performance allows viewers to connect with Xiao Chuang’s aspirations, struggles, and triumphs, making him a compelling protagonist in this story.
4. The Long Ballad (2021)
- Douban Rating: 6.1
- MyDramaList Rating: 8.7
- Cast: Dilraba Dilmurat, Wu Lei, Zhao Lusi, Liu Yuning
- Where to Watch: Viki, Netflix
- Genre: Historical, Action, Romance
Set against the backdrop of the Tang Dynasty, The Long Ballad follows Li Changge, a princess seeking revenge, and Ashile Sun, a tribal prince, whose paths collide in a whirlwind of war and revolution.
Wu Lei delivers a powerful performance as Ashile Sun. He masterfully portrays the character’s various facets – a fierce warrior on the battlefield, a loyal friend, a filial son, and a gentle, encouraging, and unwavering support as a lover. Wu Lei brings Ashile Sun’s complex emotions to life, showcasing his growth from a carefree young leader to a mature and dependable ally.
A personal note: his styling in this show is one of my favourites for him ever in a costume drama.
5. Love Like The Galaxy (2022)
- Douban Rating: 7.7
- MyDramaList Rating: 9.0
- Cast: Leo Wu, Zhao Lusi, Guo Tao, Zeng Li
- Where to Watch: WeTV, Viki
- Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama
- Episodes: 56
Set in the Han Dynasty background, Love Like the Galaxy follows Cheng Shaoshang, a young woman raised by a neglectful family, and her journey to love and independence. Wu Lei delivers a strong and captivating performance as Ling Buyi, a seemingly cold and stoic general who is not without a heart.
He portrays the character’s complexities with remarkable skill, capturing both his ferocity as a military person and surprising tenderness for his beloved. Through subtle expressions and controlled intensity, Wu Lei breathes life into Ling Buyi, making him a compelling character for viewers. His performance received praise for its emotional depth and strong screen presence, contributing to the show’s popularity. This role can be said to be another breakthrough for him and solidified Wu Lei’s reputation as a capable actor in the historical romance genre, appealing to a broad audience.
6. Nothing But You (2023)
- Douban Rating: 8.2
- MyDramaList Rating: 8.3
Nothing But You explores the story of Song San Chuan, a talented badminton player who transitions into a career as a tennis player, and his relationship with a woman ten years older than him. His character faces challenges both on and off the court, including navigating relationships and personal growth. The drama was praised for the portrayal of a healthy relationship and gender equality and mutual respect.
Wu Lei’s portrayal of Song San Chuan received positive feedback for its authenticity and maturity. He effectively conveyed the struggles and determination of an athlete, resonating with viewers and showcasing his ability to take on contemporary, character-driven stories. This role further established Wu Lei as a versatile actor capable of handling diverse genres and complex characters, contributing significantly to his journey as an actor.
Wu Lei’s journey from a child actor to a celebrated star is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. As he continues to take on new challenges and explore diverse roles, there is no doubt that his star will only continue to rise. I eagerly anticipate his future endeavours.
What’s your favourite Wu Lei performance and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
P.S. Linking to streaming services can be tricky due to regional restrictions and licensing changes. If you find any broken links or have trouble finding a particular drama, let me know in the comments so I can help you with where to watch it.
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