Explore Hidden Love cast and their roles, from the charming Sang Zhi to the conflicted Duan Jiaxu, in this heartwarming drama of love and growth.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Hidden Love is a captivating drama that weaves a beautiful tale of love, personal growth, and unforgettable connections. At its heart are the complex characters who drive the story forward, each with their own unique journey. From the innocent and artistic Sang Zhi, portrayed by Zhao Lusi, to the hardworking and conflicted Duan Jiaxu, played by Chen Zheyuan, the series explores the depths of relationships, misunderstandings, and the pursuit of dreams. Join us as we dive into the roles of these beloved characters and the powerful impact they have on each other’s lives in this emotional rollercoaster of a show.
Hidden Love Cast and Characters

Zhao Lusi as Sang Zhi
Character Introduction
Let’s start with Zhao Lusi’s portrayal of Sang Zhi, a young girl whose journey through love, confusion, and self-discovery will keep you hooked. Nicknamed “Zhizhi,” Sang Zhi is the younger sister of Sang Yan and has a very memorable first encounter with Duan Jiaxu. When she was in 8th grade, she mistakenly thought Duan Jiaxu was her older brother, leading to a funny yet impactful moment that sets the stage for their future connection.
Sang Zhi is innocent, curious, and quite artistic. She loves drawing, and her obsession with crispy duck with taro paste will make you crave the dish, too! But beyond her quirky side, her emotional journey and growth throughout the story are what truly make her stand out.
Key Personality Traits
Sang Zhi has a heart of gold. She’s sweet, caring, and endearing. While she has a strong sense of individuality—evidenced by her love for art—she’s also learning to navigate teenage love and crushes. Her personality is that of someone who’s still figuring things out, and that relatability makes her easy to root for.
She might not always understand her own emotions, especially when it comes to Duan Jiaxu, but that’s part of her charm. Her innocence mixed with her deep inner strength makes her a character you can’t help but cheer for.
Development in the Story
As the series progresses, Sang Zhi transforms from an innocent high schooler with a crush on Duan Jiaxu into a young woman dealing with the complexity of unrequited love, misunderstanding, and finding her place in the world. When she moves on to university, she tries hard to forget Duan Jiaxu, but life has other plans. Eventually, she reconnects with him, and the chemistry between them leads to one of the most heartwarming storylines in the show.
Chen Zheyuan as Duan Jiaxu
Character Introduction
Next up is Duan Jiaxu, played by Chen Zheyuan. Duan Jiaxu is a college student with big dreams. He initially wants to become a video game designer, but life throws him curveballs. He comes from a humble background, and after his father’s hospitalization, he works part-time during university to help support his family. Duan Jiaxu is quiet, thoughtful, and often conflicted about his responsibilities. But as the series unfolds, his character reveals a lot of depth and complexity.
While he doesn’t notice Sang Zhi’s feelings for him right away, his connection with her grows slowly and steadily. He becomes her tutor in high school and later, a supportive figure as their relationship evolves.
Dreams and Struggles
Duan Jiaxu’s dream of becoming a video game designer is hindered by the reality of his financial situation. His father’s health issues force him to take on extra work, and as much as he wants to follow his passion, his duty to his family always takes precedence. This internal struggle adds a lot of emotional weight to his character.
But it’s not just about work and dreams for Duan Jiaxu. His complex feelings for Sang Zhi—especially when he finds out she has feelings for him—further complicate his already stressful life. His growth as a character mirrors his evolving relationship with Sang Zhi, and you can’t help but get invested in his personal journey.
Relationship with Sang Zhi
The love story between Duan Jiaxu and Sang Zhi is one of the series’ highlights. Even though there is a significant age gap (five years), the chemistry between them is undeniable. Duan Jiaxu initially fails to recognize Sang Zhi’s feelings, and this leads to moments of confusion and even heartbreak for Sang Zhi. But when he realizes how important she is to him, things take a beautiful turn. Their relationship evolves from a friendship to something much deeper and more meaningful, making them one of the most beloved couples on screen.
Victor Ma as Sang Yan
Role and Significance
Sang Yan, played by Victor Ma, is Sang Zhi’s older brother, and his character adds both comedy and emotional depth to the series. He’s known for having a sharp tongue but a soft heart—a true “tough on the outside, soft on the inside” personality. Sang Yan is fiercely protective of his sister, and while he doesn’t always show it, he would do anything for her. His role is essential in balancing out the story’s emotional tone, providing both humor and the occasional dose of wisdom.
Relationship with Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu
Sang Yan’s relationship with Duan Jiaxu is a bit complicated. They’re college roommates and good friends, but Sang Yan can’t help but be protective of his younger sister. There’s a lot of playful bickering between him and Duan Jiaxu, especially when it comes to Sang Zhi. However, as the story progresses, Sang Yan and Duan Jiaxu become closer, and the bond between them deepens, turning from playful rivalry to genuine friendship.
Hidden Love Characters & Supporting Cast Around Sang Zhi

The supporting characters in the series play an important role in shaping Sang Zhi’s journey. From her college roommates to her family members, each of them adds something unique to her life.
Zeng Li as Li Ping
Li Ping, Sang Zhi’s mother, is played by Zeng Li. Li Ping is warm, loving, and always there for her children. Her character provides much-needed support and care, especially when things get tough for Sang Zhi.
Qiu Xinzhi as Sang Rong
Sang Rong, portrayed by Qiu Xinzhi, is Sang Zhi’s father. Though he’s not as emotionally expressive as his wife, Sang Rong is deeply concerned about the well-being of his children. His quiet, stable nature contrasts beautifully with the more chaotic aspects of their lives.
Wei Xiao as Ning Wei
Ning Wei, Sang Zhi’s lively college roommate, adds a fun and modern dynamic to the group. Played by Wei Xiao, Ning Wei is a vlogger with a personality that’s as vibrant as her videos. Her character brings lighthearted moments to the series and provides emotional support for Sang Zhi.
Qi Tianqing as Yu Xin
Yu Xin, played by Qi Tianqing, is another one of Sang Zhi’s roommates. She’s ambitious and focused on her career, but her love for gaming and her friendship with Sang Zhi provide some depth to her character. Yu Xin helps Sang Zhi navigate college life, and her determination inspires Sang Zhi to focus on her own goals.
Wang Yilan as Wang Ruolan
Wang Ruolan, portrayed by Wang Yilan, is a bit quieter and more reserved. She has a crush on Jiang Ming and represents the more subtle aspects of love and longing. Her character adds an interesting layer to the story, particularly in her interactions with Sang Zhi.
The Supporting Cast Around Duan Jiaxu

Duan Jiaxu’s life is also surrounded by a cast of supporting characters who contribute to his growth and struggles.
Li Jia Wei as Xu Ruoshu
Xu Ruoshu, played by Li Jia Wei, is Duan Jiaxu’s mother. She’s supportive and caring, always looking out for her son as he deals with the pressures of family and work.
Wang Wei Hua as Duan Zhi Cheng
Duan Zhi Cheng, Duan Jiaxu’s father, is in a coma after a tragic accident. His past actions play a major role in Duan Jiaxu’s emotional journey and his complicated relationship with his family.
Xu Shixin as Jiang Ying
Jiang Ying, portrayed by Xu Shixin, is a high school classmate of Duan Jiaxu with a troubled history. She’s obsessed with Duan Jiaxu because of his father’s past mistake, leading to a complicated and at times tense dynamic between the two characters.
Conclusion
The main and supporting cast of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu brings the story to life, making it a must-watch for fans of emotional dramas. Each character, from the sweet and innocent Sang Zhi to the charming but conflicted Duan Jiaxu, adds depth and heart to the series. Whether it’s the love triangle, sibling relationships, or the support from friends, the characters in this show offer something for everyone. With stellar performances and well-written story arcs, it’s no wonder these characters have captured our hearts.
FAQs
What is Hidden Love about?
Hidden Love is a romantic drama that explores the growth of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu’s relationship, from childhood misunderstandings to a deep, mature love. It delves into themes of self-discovery, family dynamics, and navigating the complexities of first love.
Who plays the role of Sang Zhi in Hidden Love?
Zhao Lusi plays the role of Sang Zhi, a young and artistic girl who experiences love and personal growth throughout the series.
What are the main themes explored in Hidden Love?
The show explores love, self-discovery, family, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating complex emotions and relationships, particularly between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu.
How does the relationship between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu develop throughout the series?
Their relationship starts with a misunderstanding in childhood, where Sang Zhi mistakes Duan Jiaxu for her brother. As they grow older, their friendship deepens, and romantic feelings emerge, eventually leading to a romantic relationship, despite several obstacles.
What makes Duan Jiaxu a complex character in Hidden Love?
Duan Jiaxu, played by Chen Zheyuan, is a character torn between his dreams and family responsibilities. His quiet, hardworking nature and personal struggles, particularly in balancing his love for Sang Zhi with his own ambitions, make him a complex and relatable figure.
How does Sang Zhi’s character evolve over the course of the show?
Sang Zhi grows from a shy, innocent high school student into a confident young woman in university. Her emotional journey includes learning to understand her feelings for Duan Jiaxu, overcoming misunderstandings, and developing a strong sense of self.
Who is Sang Yan, and what role does he play in Hidden Love?
Sang Yan, portrayed by Victor Ma, is Sang Zhi’s protective older brother. His sharp tongue and soft heart provide both comic relief and emotional depth, as he looks out for Sang Zhi while also offering support to Duan Jiaxu.
What role does the supporting cast play in Hidden Love?
The supporting cast, including family members and friends, plays an important role in the emotional development of the main characters. They provide guidance, humor, and contribute to the personal growth of Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu.
How does the age gap between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu affect their relationship?
The 5-year age gap creates initial tension and confusion in their relationship. Sang Zhi initially sees Duan Jiaxu as a mentor or older brother figure, but as they grow older, their feelings evolve into something deeper, causing both confusion and a beautiful romance.
What struggles does Duan Jiaxu face in his personal and professional life?
Duan Jiaxu faces the challenge of supporting his family, particularly his father’s health issues. He also grapples with his own ambitions, such as his desire to become a video game designer, all while developing feelings for Sang Zhi and balancing his emotions.
How does Sang Zhi’s family influence her journey in Hidden Love?
Sang Zhi’s family, especially her protective brother Sang Yan and her supportive parents, shape her understanding of love and responsibility. Their influence helps her navigate her personal growth and relationships.
Does Hidden Love feature moments of humor alongside emotional drama?
Yes, the show masterfully blends emotional depth with light-hearted humor, particularly through the interactions between Sang Zhi, Duan Jiaxu, and Sang Yan. The humor provides relief from the more serious emotional moments and strengthens the bonds between characters.
How does the show explore the theme of personal growth?
Hidden Love is rich with themes of personal growth, especially in how Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu mature emotionally, learning from their mistakes, facing challenges, and evolving in their love for each other.
Is Hidden Love based on a book or real-life events?
While Hidden Love is not based on real-life events, it is adapted from a popular Chinese web novel, which provides a strong foundation for the characters’ journeys and relationships.
How do the misunderstandings between Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu shape their relationship?
Their misunderstandings create both conflict and drama in the show, pushing both characters to confront their true feelings for each other. These moments of confusion ultimately strengthen their bond as they work through the challenges.
Does Hidden Love have a happy ending for Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu?
Yes, despite the ups and downs, Hidden Love concludes with a heartwarming and satisfying resolution, where Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu come together, overcoming the obstacles in their path to find happiness and love.
By: Filmitalks.in