Song of Phoenix (2017)
A sweeping Chinese historical drama where forbidden love and political ambition collide during the turbulent Warring States period.
Song of Phoenix - Series Information
- Original Title: 思美人
- First Air Year: 2017
- Last Air Year: 2017
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 45 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 78
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- First Air Date: April 28, 2017 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: Hunan Television
- Alternative Titles: Legend of Qu Yuan (US), Si Mei Ren (CN)
- Production Countries: China
Song of Phoenix - Plot
There are some relationships that are doomed from the start. During the Warring States period, Qu Yuan is born into a prominent family and grows up to be a prodigy scholar. But Qu Yuan bucks convention when he falls in love with Mo Chou Nu, a slave. Society forbids such class-breaking relationships, so the lovers decide to elope so that they can be together. Despite their efforts to lead a quiet life, Qu Yuan and Chou Nu become entangled in the political struggles of the power elites within the palace. Can their relationship survive the many obstacles?
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Song of Phoenix - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Ma Ke
- Viann Zhang Xinyu
- Qiao Zhenyu
- Li Zifeng
- Eliza Liang
- Liu Yun
- Lan Xi
- Ning Xin
- Li Yuxuan
- Peng Bo
Song of Phoenix - FAQs
What is Song of Phoenix about?
Song of Phoenix is set during China's Warring States period and centers on Qu Yuan, a gifted scholar from a noble family, who falls deeply in love with Mo Chou, a slave. Their forbidden romance draws them into dangerous palace power struggles, testing the limits of love against class and politics.
Is Song of Phoenix based on a true story?
The series is inspired by the real historical figure Qu Yuan, one of ancient China's most celebrated poets and a statesman of the Chu kingdom during the Warring States period. While the romantic storyline with Mo Chou is fictional, the political backdrop and Qu Yuan's patriotic legacy are rooted in history.
Where can you stream Song of Phoenix?
Song of Phoenix is available to stream on Rakuten Viki, both with a subscription and with ads. It can also be purchased on Amazon Video for those who prefer to own a digital copy.
Who plays Qu Yuan in Song of Phoenix?
Ma Ke takes on the lead role of Qu Yuan, the brilliant and idealistic scholar-poet. Viann Zhang Xinyu plays Mo Chou, the slave he falls in love with. The supporting cast includes Qiao Zhenyu as King Huai of Chu and Liu Yun as the scheming consort Zheng Xiu.
How many episodes does Song of Phoenix have?
Song of Phoenix runs for 78 episodes across its single season, with each episode averaging around 45 minutes. The series aired in full in 2017 on Hunan Television and has since been made available on international streaming platforms.
When did Song of Phoenix first air?
Song of Phoenix premiered on April 28, 2017, in South Korea, and aired on Hunan Television in China. The series concluded its run the same year, delivering all 78 episodes of its single season to audiences.
What are some shows similar to Song of Phoenix?
Fans of Song of Phoenix may enjoy Love Like the Galaxy (2022) and Story of Kunning Palace (2023) for their blend of romance and palace intrigue. Blossoms Shanghai (2023) and The Prisoner of Beauty (2025) are also strong picks for viewers drawn to richly produced Chinese period dramas.
What is the cultural significance of Qu Yuan in Song of Phoenix?
Qu Yuan is revered in Chinese culture as the father of Chinese poetry and the inspiration behind the Dragon Boat Festival, commemorated annually in his honor. Song of Phoenix dramatizes his life and ideals, giving international audiences a window into one of China's most enduring historical and literary legends.
More About Song of Phoenix
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