The historical detective drama Strange Tales of Tang Palace, starring Bai Lu and Wang Xingyue, is achieving impressive results on Youku, officially surpassing the 9,000 heat index mark. Since its premiere on February 5, 2026, the series has quickly risen to become one of the most talked-about dramas of early 2026, drawing strong attention from audiences who enjoy costume mystery and investigation genres.
The appeal of Strange Tales of Tang Palace lies primarily in its original script, which is packed with unexpected twists and intricately constructed cases. Each mystery unfolds in a logical, layered manner, constantly introducing new narrative knots that keep viewers on edge. The pacing is carefully controlled, allowing audiences to follow the investigation process clearly while maintaining suspense throughout each episode.
Beyond its storyline, the drama’s visual presentation is another standout element. The Tang Dynasty setting is meticulously recreated through detailed set design, refined cinematography, and carefully crafted costumes. These elements combine to create a rich, cinematic atmosphere that immerses viewers in the world of ancient intrigue and political tension.
Strange Tales of Tang Palace also marks a reunion between Bai Lu and Wang Xingyue. In the series, Bai Lu portrays Li Peiyi, a palace guard of the Internal Intelligence Bureau who is later granted the noble title of Princess Fuchang County. Her character is highly skilled in martial arts, horseback riding, archery, and close combat, frequently placing herself in life-or-death situations as each case unfolds.
Notably, approximately 70% of the drama’s action scenes were performed by Bai Lu herself. To fully embody the role, the actress joined the production three months ahead of filming and maintained an intense training schedule of over eight hours a day, focusing on physical conditioning and martial arts. Thanks to this rigorous preparation, Bai Lu’s action sequences appear clean, decisive, and full of momentum, vividly portraying a female official who is both courageous and formidable.
At the same time, her character’s styling has earned widespread praise. The vibrant color palette typical of the Tang Dynasty not only enhances Li Peiyi’s commanding presence but also adds visual depth to the overall aesthetic of the series.
On film and drama forums, Bai Lu’s performance has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Many viewers believe she has successfully refreshed her on-screen image, creating a Li Peiyi who is tough and resolute on the surface yet emotionally layered beneath. Her control over eye expressions, subtle facial movements, and psychological pacing is often cited as a key factor in making the character feel authentic and compelling.
As one of the most recognizable faces in Chinese historical dramas, Bai Lu has previously left strong impressions through acclaimed works such as One and Only, Till the End of the Moon, Bright Moonlit Destiny, and Lin Jiang Xian. With each project, she continues to demonstrate steady growth in acting ability, character versatility, and visual presentation.
With Strange Tales of Tang Palace, Bai Lu once again proves her status as a “quality guarantee” on the small screen. The drama’s current success is seen as a well-deserved reward for both the cast and crew, while further solidifying Bai Lu’s position in the hearts of viewers who are passionate about historical mystery dramas.
Sources: Youku