Legend of Lu Zhen (2013)
A sweeping Chinese historical drama about one woman's extraordinary rise from palace servant to female prime minister through talent, courage, and forbidden love.
Legend of Lu Zhen - Series Information
- Original Title: 陆贞传奇
- First Air Year: 2013
- Last Air Year: 2013
- Created by: Zhang Wei, Yu Zheng
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 46
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- First Air Date: May 5, 2013 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: Hunan Television
- Alternative Titles: 陸貞傳奇 (CN), Female Prime Minister (US), 陸貞傳奇 (HK)
- Production Companies: Perfect World Pictures, Yu Zheng Studio, Hope Century Motion Pictures, Hunan Broadcasting System, Huanyu Film and Television
- Production Countries: China
Legend of Lu Zhen - Plot
To escape her cruel stepmother, Lu Zhen enters the palace and rises through the ranks with her pottery skills. Despite capturing the heart of Crown Prince Gao Zhan, social barriers and jealous enemies prevent their union. She dedicates herself to politics, helping him thwart a coup, and is eventually honored with the position of female prime minister.
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Legend of Lu Zhen - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Zhang Wei
- Yu Zheng
Main Cast
- Zhao Liying
- Chen Xiao
- Qiao Renliang
- Maggie Cheung Ho-Yee
- Yang Rong
- Leanne Liu
- Emma Wu
- Li Yuxuan
- Tang Yixin
- 柯梅
Writers
- Zhang Wei
Executive Producers
- Lee Wai Chu
Legend of Lu Zhen - FAQs
Is Legend of Lu Zhen based on a true story?
The series is a work of historical fiction set during China's Northern Qi dynasty in the 6th century. While it draws on the period's political atmosphere and court culture, Lu Zhen herself is a fictional character. The story of a woman rising to become a female prime minister is a creative invention rather than a documented historical account.
What made Zhao Liying's performance stand out in this series?
Zhao Liying brought remarkable warmth and determination to Lu Zhen, making her one of the most beloved heroines in Chinese period drama. Her portrayal of a resourceful woman navigating palace politics with intelligence and grace resonated deeply with audiences, helping launch her into one of China's most celebrated actresses.
Where can you stream Legend of Lu Zhen?
Legend of Lu Zhen is available to stream on Rakuten Viki, which offers both subscription and ad-supported viewing options. It is also available on OnDemandKorea with ads. Availability may vary by region, so check your local version of these platforms for access.
What is the central romance in Legend of Lu Zhen?
The heart of the series is the forbidden love between Lu Zhen, a commoner-turned-palace official, and Crown Prince Gao Zhan, played by Chen Xiao. Their relationship is tested repeatedly by rigid class hierarchies, scheming rivals, and political crises, giving the romance an emotional depth that keeps viewers invested across all 46 episodes.
Who created Legend of Lu Zhen?
The series was created by Zhang Wei and Yu Zheng, with Zhang Wei also serving as the writer. Yu Zheng is one of China's most prolific and recognizable producers of historical costume dramas, known for lavish production design and emotionally driven storylines that have earned him a massive following across Asia.
How was Legend of Lu Zhen received by audiences?
The series was a major hit upon its 2013 release, drawing strong viewership on Hunan Television and earning widespread praise for its compelling lead performances and engaging palace intrigue. It became a defining title in the Chinese costume drama genre and helped cement Zhao Liying's status as a leading actress.
What themes does Legend of Lu Zhen explore?
At its core, the series explores resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of self-worth against overwhelming odds. Themes of female empowerment run throughout, as Lu Zhen navigates a male-dominated court through skill and integrity. The show also examines loyalty, political power, class division, and the personal cost of choosing duty over love.
What are similar shows to Legend of Lu Zhen?
Fans of Legend of Lu Zhen often enjoy other Chinese historical dramas such as Empresses in the Palace, Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace, Love Like the Galaxy, and The Rise of Phoenixes. These series share the same blend of palace intrigue, romance, and strong female protagonists set against richly costumed imperial backdrops.
More About Legend of Lu Zhen
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