How did Peter Ho respond to comparisons with Zhang Linghe?

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Peter Ho Clarifies Differences Between Dramas Amidst Comparison

Peter Ho has addressed comparisons between himself and Zhang Linghe, stating that the two dramas they appeared in are fundamentally different and cannot be equated. This distinction is important given the recent discussions surrounding Zhang Linghe's appearance in the popular Chinese period drama Pursuit of Jade. The series, which has gained global traction on platforms like Netflix since its March 6, 2026 release, has sparked debate regarding its portrayal of historical characters and their aesthetics.
Distinction Between Drama Genres

Ho, who appeared in the 2012 drama The Legend of Chu and Han as Qin dynasty warlord Xiang Yu, has been drawn into the conversation due to screenshots shared online. He has maintained a diplomatic stance, emphasizing that Pursuit of Jade and The Legend of Chu and Han belong to distinct genres and therefore, direct comparisons are inappropriate. His comments aim to highlight that differing narrative styles and production intentions mean that aesthetic critiques should be considered within their respective contexts.
Context of Zhang Linghe's Portrayal

The discussion intensified due to Zhang Linghe's role in Pursuit of Jade, where his character's striking good looks, even in battle scenes, have drawn attention and nicknames such as "General of (Liquid) Foundation." While some official Chinese media outlets have expressed concerns that such an emphasis on appearance might misrepresent Chinese culture, others, like CCTV News, have praised the costume design for its "unique oriental charm." Fans, however, largely defend Zhang's portrayal, noting it aligns with the source web novel's description of the hero as exceptionally handsome, fitting the "slow burn" romance genre.
Fan Reception and Source Material Alignment

The fan base for Pursuit of Jade has largely embraced Zhang Linghe's appearance, with many asserting that his portrayal is faithful to the original web novel by Tuan Zi Lai Xi. The novel's descriptions, such as the hero having "eyes like black lacquer" and a "face like cold jade," support the idea that his handsomeness is an intended characteristic. This alignment with the source material suggests that the visual presentation is integral to the romantic narrative that has captivated viewers, leading the show to debut at number six on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English Shows chart.

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How did Peter Ho respond to comparisons with Zhang Linghe?

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