Joy of Life (2019)
A beloved Chinese historical drama-comedy following a young man's journey through power, loyalty, and justice in an ancient kingdom.
Joy of Life - Series Information
- Original Title: 庆余年
- First Air Year: 2019
- Last Air Year: 2024
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 83
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- First Air Date: November 26, 2019 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: CCTV-8, Zhejiang Television, Tencent Video
- Alternative Titles: 慶餘年 (TW), Alegria da Vida (BR), 庆余年2 (CN), Joy of Life 2 (US)
- Production Companies: Tencent Pictures, Azure Media Corporation 天津深蓝影视, Yuewen Media / Yuewen Film 阅文影视, Xinli TV 新丽电视, China Central Television 中央电视台 (CCTV), 海南广播电视总台, Tianjin Yuewen Media 天津阅文影视, Tencent Penguin Pictures
- Production Countries: China
Joy of Life - Plot
Zhang Qing, a present-day college student in culture and history major wants to study in professor Ye's postgraduate class, so he decides to write a historical fiction to elaborate his perspective of analyzing ancient literature history with modern concept. In the fiction, Zhang himself acts as a young man Fan Xian with mysterious life who lives in a remote seaside town of Kingdom Qing in his childhood, under the help of a mysterious mentor and a blindfolded watchman. Fan goes to the capital when he grows up, where he experiences plenty of ordeal and temper. Fan persists in adhering the rule of justice and goodness and lives his own glorious life.
Joy of Life - Trailer
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Joy of Life - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Zhang Ruoyun
- Li Qin
- Chen Daoming
- Wu Gang
- Xin Zhilei
- Liu Duanduan
- Song Yi
- Li Xiaoran
- Liu Hua
- Tian Yu
Writers
- Wang Juan
Joy of Life - FAQs
Where can you stream Joy of Life online?
Joy of Life is available to stream on Rakuten Viki (subscription and ad-supported), OnDemandKorea (ad-supported), and Plex Channel (free). Availability may vary by region. Visit JustWatch to compare all current viewing options in your area.
Is Joy of Life based on a novel?
Yes. Joy of Life is adapted from the popular Chinese web novel 庆余年 (Qing Yu Nian) written by Mao Ni (猫腻). The novel was serialized online and gained a massive following before being adapted into this acclaimed television series.
Who are the lead actors in Joy of Life?
The series stars Zhang Ruoyun as the protagonist Fan Xian, Li Qin as Lin Wan'er, and Chen Daoming as the Emperor of Qing. Wu Gang, Xin Zhilei, Song Yi, Li Xiaoran, Liu Hua, and Tian Yu also feature prominently throughout the series.
Will there be a Season 3 of Joy of Life?
Joy of Life is currently listed as a Returning Series and remains in production, confirming that the story continues beyond Season 2. Season 3 has been officially announced, with the production team and core cast expected to return for the next chapter.
What is Joy of Life about?
Joy of Life follows Fan Xian, a young man with a mysterious background who grows up in the Kingdom of Qing and eventually enters the capital, where he faces political intrigue, power struggles, and moral trials. The story blends martial arts, romance, and sharp wit.
How many seasons and episodes does Joy of Life have?
Joy of Life currently spans 3 seasons with a total of 83 episodes. Season 1 contains 46 episodes, Season 2 contains 36 episodes, and Season 3 is ongoing. The series also includes 25 special episodes collected under Season 0.
When did Joy of Life first premiere?
Joy of Life first premiered on November 26, 2019. It aired on CCTV-8, Zhejiang Television, and Tencent Video in China, quickly becoming one of the most-watched Chinese drama series of that year and earning widespread critical and audience acclaim.
How was Joy of Life received by critics and audiences?
Joy of Life was very well received, praised for its witty writing, strong performances, and the charismatic lead turn by Zhang Ruoyun. The series became a cultural phenomenon in China, with Season 2 in 2024 breaking viewership records and reigniting enthusiasm for the franchise.
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