The Early Spring drama sparks fan theories and popularity

The Chinese workplace romance drama ‘The Early Spring’ has gained significant popularity on Netflix. The 24-episode series, based on the web novel ‘Zhao Chun Qing Lang’, follows Luan Nian (also known as Luke), a sharp-tongued creative executive at a top-tier advertising firm, and his secret romance with newcomer Shang Zhitao.

Actor Jing Boran, who portrays Luan Nian, has received praise for his performance and sartorial elegance. Boran reportedly contributed over 120 items from his personal collection to help establish the character’s fashion style, aiming to showcase Chinese sartorial aesthetics.

The show’s success has sparked online speculation regarding whether the protagonist is inspired by real-life singer Liu Lian. Netizens pointed to similarities between the character’s professional background at an advertising agency, his ties to Peking University, and specific details involving a Samoyed dog. Liu Lian addressed the theories with amusement during a recent podcast appearance.