In a bombshell announcement that has sent shockwaves through the global fandom, Tencent Video has officially confirmed the long-rumored second season of the beloved Chinese drama The Untamed (Chen Qing Ling). Slated for a worldwide premiere on June 27, 2026—exactly seven years after the original series’ debut—the revival promises to delve deeper into the intricate world of cultivation, forbidden arts, and unbreakable bonds. But here’s the twist that’s left fans reeling: only one of the iconic leads, Xiao Zhan as Wei Wuxian, is returning. Wang Yibo’s role as Lan Wangji has been recast in complete secrecy, with rising star Li Bowen stepping into the shoes of the stoic Hanguang-Jun. Sources close to the production reveal that this decision was made early in pre-production to avoid leaks, sparking debates about loyalty, legacy, and the evolution of a cultural phenomenon.

The Untamed, adapted from Mo Xiang Tong Xiu’s danmei novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation), first captivated audiences in 2019 with its blend of wuxia action, supernatural intrigue, and subtle exploration of queer themes. The series, which aired on Tencent Video and later gained international acclaim via Netflix and WeTV, amassed over 9.5 billion views and spawned a dedicated fanbase known as “The Untamed Girls.” Its success wasn’t just commercial; it was a cultural milestone, introducing global viewers to Chinese folklore, traditional etiquette, and the nuances of xianxia storytelling. Now, with Season 2 on the horizon, this article provides an in-depth analysis of the original series, its narrative logic, key characters, standout plot points, and how the revival bridges the gap—while addressing the seismic shift in casting.

Recapping Season 1: A Tale of Resurrection, Redemption, and Forbidden Bonds

At its core, The Untamed Season 1 is a story of loss, resurrection, and the unyielding pull of destiny. The narrative unfolds across two timelines: the past, where young cultivators train and battle against tyranny, and the present, where old wounds resurface. Wei Wuxian (Xiao Zhan), the charismatic and mischievous founder of demonic cultivation, is introduced as a free-spirited disciple of the Yunmeng Jiang Sect. His innovative use of resentful energy—channeling the spirits of the dead via his flute Chenqing—sets him apart, but it also brands him a heretic in the eyes of the orthodox cultivation world.

The plot kicks off with Wei Wuxian’s enrollment at the Gusu Lan Sect’s Cloud Recesses for training. Here, he clashes and connects with Lan Wangji (Wang Yibo), the epitome of discipline and restraint. Their relationship evolves from rivalry to profound companionship, laced with unspoken affection that fans interpret as romantic. As political tensions escalate, the tyrannical Qishan Wen Sect, led by the ambitious Wen Ruohan (Xiu Qing), wages war on other clans. Wei Wuxian, alongside his adoptive siblings Jiang Cheng (Wang Zhuocheng) and Jiang Yanli (Xuan Lu), fights back, but tragedy strikes when the Wen forces destroy the Jiang Sect’s Lotus Pier.

In a pivotal act of sacrifice, Wei Wuxian transfers his golden core—his source of spiritual power—to Jiang Cheng, leaving himself vulnerable and forcing him to rely on demonic cultivation. This decision propels the story into darker territory. Wei Wuxian becomes the feared Yiling Patriarch, commanding an army of the undead, including his loyal subordinate Wen Ning (Yu Bin), the “Ghost General.” The Sunshot Campaign against the Wen Sect culminates in victory, but at great cost: Wei Wuxian’s methods alienate allies, leading to the devastating Battle of Nightless City. In the chaos, Jiang Yanli dies protecting him, pushing Wei Wuxian to despair. He destroys the Stygian Tiger Amulet—a powerful artifact fueling his demonic powers—and leaps to his death.

Sixteen years later, the story resumes with Wei Wuxian’s resurrection in the body of Mo Xuanyu (also played by Xiao Zhan), a scorned outcast who sacrifices himself via a forbidden ritual. Reunited with Lan Wangji, now a revered figure investigating mysterious murders, Wei Wuxian uncovers a conspiracy orchestrated by Jin Guangyao (Zhu Zanjin), the seemingly benevolent leader of the Lanling Jin Sect. The duo, aided by disciples like Lan Sizhui (Zheng Fanxing) and Lan Jingyi (Guo Cheng), exposes layers of betrayal involving the Nie Sect’s Nie Mingjue (Wang Yizhou) and the manipulative Xue Yang (Wang Haoxuan).

Thematically, Season 1 explores justice versus orthodoxy, the corrupting influence of power, and the redemptive power of love. Wei Wuxian’s journey from hero to outcast critiques societal hypocrisy, while Lan Wangji’s quiet devotion symbolizes unwavering loyalty. The series’ logic is rooted in xianxia tropes—spiritual energy, sects, and artifacts—but it subverts them by emphasizing moral ambiguity. Plot holes, such as the ease of Wei Wuxian’s resurrection or the sects’ inconsistent alliances, are minor, forgiven amid the emotional depth. Standout moments include the lantern festival confession, where Lan Wangji’s subtle “I want to bring someone back to Cloud Recesses” hints at deeper feelings, and the heart-wrenching cliff scene, echoing Wei Wuxian’s past suicide.

Reception was overwhelmingly positive. Critics praised the elaborate costumes, suspenseful pacing, and chemistry between leads. People’s Daily lauded its promotion of traditional values like chivalry, while international fans on platforms like Twitter (now X) formed communities analyzing subtext. Economically, it generated millions through merchandise, concerts, and VIP subscriptions, solidifying danmei adaptations as viable mainstream entertainment.

Bridging to Season 2: Continuity Amid Change

Season 2 picks up where the spin-off films Fatal Journey and The Living Dead left off, expanding the universe while honoring the novel’s untapped elements. In the finale of Season 1, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji part ways ambiguously, with Wei wandering freely and Lan upholding his duties. The new season reportedly explores their life post-conspiracy, delving into unresolved threats like lingering resentful spirits and a new antagonist tied to the Stygian Iron pieces.

Linking directly to Season 1, the plot introduces a “Resurgence Arc,” where a secret society seeks to revive Wen Ruohan’s legacy using forbidden artifacts. Wei Wuxian, now fully embracing his dual path of orthodox and demonic cultivation, teams up with Lan Wangji to thwart this. Flashbacks will revisit untold stories from the sixteen-year gap, including Lan Wangji’s search for Wei and his punishment for defying sect rules. This continuity maintains the series’ logic: the cultivation world’s fragile peace is threatened by ambition, echoing Jin Guangyao’s downfall.

However, the recast of Lan Wangji introduces a narrative pivot. Li Bowen, known for roles in Word of Honor and Immortal Samsara, was chosen for his ability to convey quiet intensity. Production insiders claim Wang Yibo’s scheduling conflicts with music and film commitments (including a rumored Hollywood debut) necessitated the change. The secrecy—filming under NDAs and using body doubles—mirrors the show’s theme of hidden truths. Fans speculate this allows for a “reborn” Lan Wangji, perhaps involving a plot device like spiritual transference, tying into the resurrection motif.

Character Analysis: Evolution and New Faces

The ensemble cast remains a cornerstone, with returning actors ensuring familiarity. Xiao Zhan’s Wei Wuxian evolves from playful rogue to mature guardian, grappling with the consequences of his powers. His relationship with Lan Wangji, the emotional heart of the series, will deepen, exploring domesticity amid chaos—think shared investigations and quiet moments at Cloud Recesses.

Li Bowen’s Lan Wangji brings fresh nuance: while Wang Yibo’s portrayal was stoic and understated, Bowen’s version emphasizes vulnerability, drawing from the novel’s descriptions of internal turmoil. This recast challenges the dynamic; will the chemistry match? Early leaks suggest yes, with Bowen training in guqin and swordplay to honor the role.

Supporting characters anchor the continuity. Jiang Cheng (Wang Zhuocheng) returns, his complex bond with Wei—marked by resentment and love—driving subplots about family reconciliation. Jin Ling (Qi Peixin), now a young sect leader, matures into a key ally, his arc highlighting generational shifts. Wen Ning and Lan Sizhui provide comic relief and action, with Sizhui’s parentage (revealed as Wen descendant) explored further.

New additions include a female antagonist, played by Meng Ziyi (reprising Wen Qing in flashbacks but as a new character), a rogue cultivator seeking revenge. A young disciple duo, inspired by novel side stories, adds youthful energy. The logic of character development stays true: no one is purely heroic or villainous. Wei’s optimism balances Lan’s restraint, creating a yin-yang harmony that critiques rigid morality.

Narrative Logic and Standout Plot Points

The Untamed‘s logic is impeccably woven, blending mythology with psychology. The golden core system explains power dynamics, while resentful energy symbolizes trauma—unresolved grudges manifesting as chaos. Season 1’s plot twists, like Jin Guangyao’s empathy curse or Xue Yang’s finger obsession, build logically from setups, avoiding deus ex machina.

Season 2 maintains this by introducing “Echoes of the Past,” where artifacts from Season 1 (like Chenqing fragments) trigger visions, revealing alternate timelines. A standout point: a secret alliance between sects fractures when a “demonic resurgence” mimics Wei’s methods, forcing him to defend his legacy. Logic-wise, this probes free will versus fate—did Wei’s sacrifices create a cycle?

Potential plot holes? The recast could strain immersion, but if framed as a “soul shift” (Lan Wangji’s spirit in a new vessel due to a curse), it fits the supernatural framework. Emotional beats, like a reimagined “Inquiry” scene where Lan plays his guqin to summon spirits, promise catharsis. Action sequences—sword fights in misty mountains, flute-summoned undead hordes—elevate the spectacle, while themes of acceptance resonate in a post-censorship era.

Fan Reactions and Legacy

The announcement has ignited fervor on X and Weibo. Hashtags like #UntamedS2 and #LanWangjiRecast trend, with mixed reactions: excitement for new stories versus outrage over Yibo’s absence. “It’s like recasting Harry Potter mid-series,” one fan tweeted. Yet, optimism prevails, with polls showing 70% eager for Bowen’s take.

In conclusion, The Untamed Season 2 revives a masterpiece, linking past glories to fresh horizons. By analyzing its characters, logic, and plots, it’s clear this isn’t mere fan service—it’s an evolution. Whether it soars or stumbles on the recast, one thing’s certain: the untamed spirit endures.