From legendary figures to breakout roles, these Chinese actresses have turned the battlefield into a runway with their commanding presence, brilliant performances, and unforgettable looks. Here are ten of the most striking portrayals of female generals on screen:
Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force
With a cinematic face and fierce combat skills, newcomer Nashi impressed as General Deng Chan Yu. Whether riding horses or wielding twin swords, her performance was gripping and intense. Despite her status as a rising star, she’s already being called one of the finest female generals in recent C-drama history.
Fated Hearts
As the unrivaled archer Fu Yixiao, Li Qin exudes both charm and danger. Dressed in ethereal red robes with a deadly aim, her transformation from foe to ally in a romantic arc added complexity to the role. Li’s portrayal fused elegance with grit, winning the hearts of many.
Qingchuan’s Veil Of Vengeance
Trained by the general she idolized, Mo Qingxuan hides her identity and leads a silent resistance to reclaim her family’s honor. Guo Xiaoting delivers a tragic yet empowering performance. Her character’s strength shines even after betrayal, torture, and loss. The moment she chooses to end her pregnancy to protect her body and legacy marks one of the most haunting sacrifices on screen in 2025.
Every time Dilraba dons armor, social media explodes. Her portrayal in The Long Ballad as Princess Li Changge combined striking visuals with commanding presence. While her armor scenes in The Legend of Anle also earned acclaim, many believe her most iconic “female general” moments still belong to The Long Ballad.
Shadow Love
General Li Shuang rescues an amnesiac, naming him Jin’an. They uncover a spy, facing obstacles from their supervisor and the Dayao kingdom. Jin’an is revealed as the King of Zhenshi, risking war until they unite to find a peaceful solution Played by Song Yi, she brings intelligence, loyalty, and strategic finesse. Her graceful yet determined screen presence earned her the nickname “Nation’s Sister-in-law” and affirmed her rising star status.
Moonlit Order
As the icy commander of the Snow Feather Guards, Hankiz delivers a chilling performance. Her sharp gaze and sculpted look made her bridal armor scene go viral. Feng Zuo Ren balances lethal prowess with enigmatic allure, making her one of the standout generals this year.
Fight for Love
Both a strategist and a soldier, Chu Yu charges into battle as easily as she uncovers court secrets. Victoria Song balances the duality of her role, portraying a refined yet fierce warrior. Her complex romance with Wei Wei kept audiences talking long after the series ended.
Fighting For Love
One of the few convincing cross-dressing generals, Zhang Tianai trades glamor for grit. Her portrayal of A Mai, who disguises herself as a man to enlist, was raw and physical. She earned praise for action scenes that were both powerful and emotionally resonant.
Legend of The Female General
Whether in armor or noble robes, Zhou Ye captivates with her intensity. Playing the heiress-turned-general He Yan, she fights to restore her family’s name. Her subtle expressions and regal styling made her one of 2025’s breakout icons in the costume drama scene.
Zhao Wei as Princess Jiang in Painted Skin 2
Once the kingdom’s most beautiful woman, Princess Jiang was disfigured in a hunting accident and hides behind a golden mask. Zhao Wei transforms into a tragic heroine who defies death and heartbreak. Unlike her gentle image in Painted Skin, she stuns as a battle-hardened royal with unmatched poise and pathos.
From historical fantasies to war epics, these actresses remind viewers that strength and beauty are not mutually exclusive. Their portrayals have reshaped how female power is depicted in Chinese costume dramas blending elegance, pain, and resilience on the battlefield.
Sources: K14