From controvery marred Esther Yu, her rival Zhao Lusi to top-tier star Dilraba Dilmurat: Chinese actresses dominating IP dramas

The Chinese entertainment industry isn't just growing - it's shifting, and fast. At the heart of this change is the rise of IP dramas, a format that has quietly become the backbone of mainstream success. For many actresses, these adaptations aren't just projects - they're career turning points.

IP dramas, or "Intellectual Property dramas," are series adapted from already popular material - web novels, comics, or even games that come with an existing fan following. Because of that built-in audience, these dramas are often seen as safer investments. They generate buzz quickly, trend easily, and more importantly, can push actors into overnight stardom if the project clicks.

Esther Yu ranks sixth with four IP dramas, but numbers alone don’t tell her story. Her breakout role in Love Between Fairy and Devil changed everything, turning her into one of the most recognizable faces in the genre. Since then, she has leaned into romantic and fantasy roles, where her bright on-screen presence stands out. At the same time, attention hasn't always been positive. Discussions around her performances and public image continue to follow her, keeping her constantly in the spotlight.

Sharing the same count of four IP dramas, Zhao Lusi has taken a slightly different route - steady, consistent, and adaptable. With hits like Love Like the Galaxy and Who Rules the World, she has proven she can move between genres without losing audience interest. Even when certain projects draw criticism, her ability to adjust and deliver keeps her in demand.

With five IP dramas, Ju Jing Yi has no shortage of opportunities - but the response to her work remains divided. Her strong visual appeal ensures she's frequently cast, yet not all projects leave a lasting impression. Some dramas fail to meet expectations, leading to ongoing debates about whether quantity is translating into real influence.

Yang Zi, with six IP dramas, sits in a position many aim for but few sustain. Her roles in Ashes of Love and Go Go Squid! didn't just perform well - they connected. That balance between emotional depth and commercial success is what sets her apart, making her one of the more reliable names in the industry.

Also at six IP dramas, Bai Lu's rise has been hard to miss. Projects like One and Only and Till The End of The Moon have kept her consistently visible. While opinions on her acting can vary, her presence in large-scale productions ensures she remains firmly in the conversation.

At the top is Dilraba Dilmurat with seven IP dramas, leading the list in sheer volume. Her work in Eternal Love of Dream and The Long Ballad helped define her star power. But staying at the top comes with its own pressure. Some recent projects suggest that maintaining momentum is becoming more difficult in an increasingly crowded field.