Our next drama to discuss is the wildly popular Joy of Life 庆余年! Starring Zhang Ruo Yun, Li Qin, Chen Dao Ming and a star-studded cast, the drama follows the story of Fan Xian, who is reincarnated into another world as a baby, as he grows up and is thrust into the machinations of the Qing Empire. For this intro, we discuss the plot, the actors, and our own Joy of Life connection as Cathy travels around in China! Listen and get ready for Joy of Life Season 1.

The summer season for Chinese dramas is now in full swing. Yang Mi and Gong Jun offer Fox Spirit Match Maker: Red Moon Pact which is stunning in both set design and costumes, but has failed to capture audiences. Meanwhile, Wu Jin Yan from The Story of YanXi Palace returns with The Double which is a surprise hit. The Tale of Rose featuring Liu Yi Fei is slated to air on June 8, a modern day drama, and we highlight Golden Trio which features some of our favorite, more senior actors.

We wrap up our in depth discussion of the extraordinary drama, The Longest Day In Chang'An with a recap of episode 48. We also discuss overall thoughts of the drama, go over book differences, highlight key historical character endings and also elaborate on careers of the 3 main cast members.

Thank you all for joining us as we complete another drama!

In the penultimate episode (ep 47) of the Longest Day in Chang'An, the characters uncover one final spy hidden amongst them at Jing An Si. The Emperor is bewildered to see Xu Bin as the one to greet him after his harrowing escape. Despite his best efforts, Xu Bin is dismayed to see that the Emperor refuses to acknowledge his abilities. Xu Bin resolves to show just what he is capable of. Listen our latest podcast episode as many more secrets are revealed!

The variety/reality Chinese singing competition Singer 2024 created quite some buzz in its latest season following the knockout performances by a few competitors in this live recording of the show that has left Chinese audiences eager to see who can compete against these strong contestants. Listen to hear what's been creating the buzz in May.

Xiao Gui and Zhang Xiao Jing hide alongside the Emperor and Tan Qi in a tavern. A barber and his young daughter seek refuge in the tavern only to find that they stepped into a lion's den. Xiao Gui wants the Emperor to be killed publicly but is surprised when the Emperor kneels and requests that Xiao Gui lets innocent civilians go. Seeing that innocent lives are in danger and that perhaps the Emperor is not as bad as he seems, Xiao Gui decides to step forward to save the day.

Phoenix Legend or 凤凰传奇, a music duo, have been known to Chinese audiences for 2 decades but their recent concert tour in China have been highly entertaining. Concert goers have become very intense and are competing to make sure they represent their concerts well with knowledge of Phoenix Legend lyrics. We share music from the duo and fun tidbits that have been shared online from these concerts.

The BIGGEST drama of the year to air, in our opinion, is the HIGHLY anticipated season 2 of Joy of Life or Qing Yu Nian. It is slated to air on May 16 with most of the cast returning from season 1 and a number of new characters joining the cast. Outside of that, In the Name of the Brother featuring Yang Mi has not gone over well with audiences despite her heavy marketing of her improvement in acting. Meanwhile Cathy enjoyed the modern love story of Will Love in Spring. An interesting short series To The Wonder is also piquing our interest.

In episode 44 and part 1 of episode 45, the Emperor finally experiences the reality of Chang An. He cannot believe the poverty, filth, and corruption that is occurs right outside of his palace walls. He is also touched by the kindness shown by regular people expecting nothing in return, but he nevertheless see the reality that the Right Chancellor wants him to see. Meanwhile, Li Bi vows to uncover the mastermind behind the day's events, even if it means the end of his career. Cheng Sen agrees to aid him

Karen and Cathy introduce the other 18 ladies competing in Season 5 of Ride the Wind/Sisters Who Make Waves for 2024.