Taiwanese actor Peter Ho has recently found himself back in the spotlight as his portrayal of Xiang Yu in The Legend of Chu and Han resurfaces online, more than 14 years after the drama first aired. The renewed attention comes amid ongoing discussions comparing the portrayal of military generals in Chinese historical dramas, with many viewers praising his performance as a benchmark for the genre.
Audiences have highlighted his commanding presence, rugged physique, and powerful aura, with some even calling his Xiang Yu “the peak of ancient general portrayals.” However, in a recent interview, Peter Ho humbly rejected such titles, stating that he does not dare to claim the label and instead feels honored to have had the opportunity to portray a historical figure of such significance.
Reflecting on the unexpected resurgence of the role, he described himself as both “lucky” and “grateful.” “After more than a decade, seeing people revisit this role feels like reliving a dream,” he shared. Despite the passage of time, Xiang Yu remains one of his most cherished characters since entering the entertainment industry.
To prepare for the physically demanding role, Peter Ho revealed that he underwent intensive training to build muscle, increasing his weight to over 80 kilograms. The heavy armor alone required significant strength, not to mention the demands of wielding weapons and performing combat scenes.
Filming conditions were equally challenging. Reports indicate that production took place in extreme cold, with temperatures dropping to -17°C. Despite this, Peter Ho performed shirtless battle scenes while wearing heavy armor, delivering a visually striking and intense performance. He also took an active role in designing action sequences, insisting on realistic close combat scenes and personally executing horse-riding and fight choreography without relying on slow-motion effects.
Veteran actor Chen Daoming once praised his performance, stating that Peter Ho successfully captured the ruthless and heroic essence of Xiang Yu.
Over the years, Peter Ho has built a diverse acting portfolio, taking on a wide range of roles—from iconic characters like Bu Jingyun in Wind and Cloud to Lü Bu in New Three Kingdoms, as well as modern romantic leads. His ability to transition between vastly different character types, from fierce warriors to gentle executives, has solidified his reputation as a versatile actor.
Sources: Netizenbuzz