The new C-drama Shine on Me brings together a celebrated cast to tell a story of healing, growth, and romance. Headlined by popular actors Song Weilong and Zhao Jinmai, the series is an adaptation of author Gu Man’s beloved web novel and follows a young woman’s journey from a bittersweet college crush to finding unexpected love in the workplace.
The show is now available for a global audience to stream on platforms including Netflix and iQIYI.
What Is Shine on Me About?
Shine on Me (also known by its Chinese title Jiao Yang Si Wo) is a 2025 urban romance drama. The story follows Nie Xiguang, a bright and cheerful university student who harbors a long-term, unrequited crush on a brilliant but aloof classmate. After graduation, she joins her family’s company as a junior employee, hoping to move on from her past.
At work, she meets Lin Yusen, the new deputy general manager. A former gifted surgeon, Lin Yusen was forced to leave medicine after an accident damaged his left hand, ending his surgical career. Initially, their clashing personalities lead to misunderstandings. However, Nie Xiguang’s warm and optimistic nature begins to heal Lin Yusen’s emotional wounds, drawing him to her. With his unconditional support, she learns to let go of her old regrets, grows into a capable professional, and discovers a new, sincere love.
Main Cast and Characters: Who Plays Whom?
The drama’s central relationship is brought to life by two of China’s most popular young actors.
Song Weilong as Lin Yusen
Song Weilong takes on the role of Lin Yusen, a complex character defined by profound change. Once a rising star in neurosurgery, his life and career are tragically altered by a car accident. Forced to reinvent himself, he joins the business world but carries the pain of his loss. Described as calm and resilient, he maintains a positive exterior despite his past trauma. His initial meetings with Nie Xiguang are prickly, but he is gradually captivated by her genuine warmth, which helps him confront and heal his own pain.
Song Weilong is widely recognized for his roles in dramas like Youthful Glory and The Bionic Life.
Zhao Jinmai as Nie Xiguang
Zhao Jinmai stars as the female lead, Nie Xiguang. The character begins her journey as a spirited college student known for her sunny disposition, who nurses a years-long secret crush. When she is finally rejected, she bravely tries to start anew in the professional world. Her path is not straightforward—she faces workplace challenges and the lingering echoes of her past feelings. Through her relationship with Lin Yusen and her own determination, she evolves from a carefree graduate into a woman with clear goals in both love and her career.
Zhao Jinmai is a beloved actress known for projects such as The Wandering Earth, Drifting Away, and Growing Pain.
Supporting Cast and Character Guide
Beyond the main couple, Shine on Me features a rich ensemble of supporting characters who add depth to the story of love, friendship, and rivalry.
- Lai Weiming as Zhuang Xu: He is the object of Nie Xiguang’s unrequited affection during university. A top student focused solely on his future, he fails to recognize his own feelings until Xiguang has begun to move on with her life.
- Bai Bingke as Ye Rong: A childhood friend of Zhuang Xu, Ye Rong has held feelings for him for years. She becomes a complicating factor in the central love story, often feeling jealous of Nie Xiguang.
- Fan Shiran as Yin Jie: Portrayed as Xiguang’s loyal and supportive best friend in the workplace, Yin Jie is always there to offer advice and encouragement.
- Other Key Support Roles: The cast also includes Gu Zicheng as Zhuang Fei, Han Haolin as Jiang Rui, Zhao Xin as Ou Qiqi, and Qin Xiaoxuan as Fang Shengyi.
Where to Watch Shine on Me
Shine on Me is accessible to international viewers on major streaming platforms. The series is available with English subtitles.
- Netflix: The full series is streaming globally on Netflix.
- iQIYI: The drama is also available for streaming on iQIYI International (iQ.com).
Also Read: The Vendetta of An Ending Explained: Betrayal, Survival, and an Unfinished Revenge
