Beijing: Zhang Linghe has come under fire from Chinese state media for his portrayal of a "foundation-wearing general" in the series The Jade Dragon Hunt. The Chinese historical drama "Pursuit of Jade," which has captured significant attention since its premiere in early March 2026, has faced criticism for the meticulous makeup of its male lead actor. Chinese netizens have humorously dubbed him "the foundation-wearing general."

According to Thai News Agency, Chinese state media has recently attacked this portrayal, arguing that current film and television productions are emphasizing external appearance over core values. This trend, they argue, might negatively influence the beauty standards and culture of young individuals over time.

China's state-run media further expressed these concerns on Weibo, stating that heavily made-up generals in historical dramas fail to represent a strong, masculine image in society. There is a call for more productions that highlight strong, masculine qualities.

The importance of film and television is well-recognized by China's top leadership, who have expressed concerns over "extreme celebrity obsession" and the chaos within "fandoms." This led to a significant crackdown on the entertainment industry in 2021. Efforts included regulating the "fan club economy," its funding networks, and addressing the image of male artists who wore heavy makeup or appeared effeminate. Additionally, reforms to physical education curricula were announced, focusing on cultivating "strong masculinity" among students. Despite these measures, the issue persists, prompting state media to intensify their criticism.