C-drama fans are buzzing after confirmation that Kong Xue’er (Snow Kong) and Deng Kai—the breakout second couple from the hit 2025-2026 series Pursuit of Jade (逐玉)—have officially reunited on screen.
The pair, beloved for their intense “Bu Qi Er Yu” (不齐而俞) chemistry, is now starring as supporting leads in the highly anticipated ancient costume power-struggle drama Jiang Men Du Hou (将门独后, also known as The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of the Military Lineage).
Filming is already underway, and early leaks plus set photos have sparked massive online excitement. Here’s your complete, up-to-date guide to their reunion project.
Why This Reunion Matters: From Pursuit of Jade Breakout to Second Collaboration
Kong Xue’er and Deng Kai first captivated audiences as the complex second CP in Pursuit of Jade. Kong played the independent,穿越-era businesswoman Yu Qianqian (俞浅浅), while Deng portrayed the obsessive, dark prince Qi Min (齐旻). Their toxic-yet-magnetic “hate-love” dynamic—complete with forced affection, escape plots, and unforgettable intense scenes—stole the spotlight and earned them millions of new fans.
The chemistry was so strong that producers locked them in for Jiang Men Du Hou even before Pursuit of Jade aired, betting on their proven on-screen spark. This marks their second official collaboration, with rumors already swirling about a potential third project as main leads.
Jiang Men Du Hou – Plot, Cast, and Kong Xue’er + Deng Kai’s Roles
Drama Basics
Genre: Ancient costume, rebirth/revenge, political intrigue, romance
Episodes: 36
Platform: Tencent Video (exclusive)
Director: Yin Tao
Screenwriters: Ye Yang, Cheng Le
Status: Filming began February 20, 2026, in Hengdian Studios; currently in active production (as of April 2026)
Main Plot
Adapted from the popular novel Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of the Military Lineage, the story follows Shen Miao (Meng Ziyi), a deposed empress who dies unjustly in the cold palace. Reborn as her teenage self, she exposes betrayals, protects her family, and exacts revenge while forging an alliance (and romance) with the enigmatic Xie Jingxing (Wang Hedi / Dylan Wang).
Key Cast
Wang Hedi (Dylan Wang) as Xie Jingxing (谢景行) – Playful on the surface, deeply strategic
Meng Ziyi as Shen Miao (沈妙) – Reborn avenger and future empress
Kong Xue’er as Shen Yue (沈玥) – Supporting female role; a scheming, ambitious beauty entangled in palace politics
Deng Kai as Huangfu Hao (皇甫灏) – Supporting male role; a calculating crown prince caught in power struggles
Kong Xue’er & Deng Kai’s Characters (Second CP – “Shen Yue × Huangfu Hao”)
Shen Yue is portrayed as vain yet cunning, using her wits for survival and advancement. Her arc involves tragic choices, obsession, and manipulation.
Huangfu Hao is a deep, suspicious prince navigating deadly court games.
Their dynamic: Mutual scheming, fake alliances,利益交换 (利益交换), and hidden tension—“he chased, she fled” in one life; “she seeks, he responds” in another. Expect heavy power-play, emotional pull-push, and a villainous tragic ending that contrasts their previous roles.
Fan Reactions and Early Buzz
Set leaks and styling photos have already gone viral, with netizens praising:
Their “story-rich” ancient costumes and natural on-set rapport
The upgrade from “forced love” intensity in Pursuit of Jade to sophisticated “chess-piece lovers” tension
Potential for even stronger acting showcases in a full power-maneuver storyline
Many are calling it a “perfect match” for the pair’s signature layered chemistry.
Recent Joint Appearances Keeping the Hype Alive
Beyond the drama, Kong Xue’er and Deng Kai have appeared together on:
Hello Saturday variety show (recreating fun trends)
A L’Oréal Paris sunscreen livestream (April 2, 2026)
These off-screen moments have only amplified fan calls for more collaborations.
Rumors of a Third Project?
Whispers continue about the duo headlining a modern romance titled Kiss in the Wind (or Waiting for the Wind to Kiss You / 等风热吻你), where Kong would play a glamorous actress and Deng a forensic doctor. No official confirmation yet, but their growing popularity makes it a strong possibility.
FAQ: Everything Fans Are Asking About Kong Xue’er and Deng Kai’s Reunion
Q: When will Jiang Men Du Hou air?
A: No official release date yet. Filming is ongoing; expect late 2026 or 2027 on Tencent Video.
Q: Are Kong Xue’er and Deng Kai the main leads?
A: No—they play significant supporting roles as the second CP. The drama’s leads are Wang Hedi and Meng Ziyi.
Q: Is their new pairing similar to Pursuit of Jade?
A: Different vibe! Still full of emotional tug-of-war and tension, but heavier on political intrigue and mutual scheming rather than obsessive romance.
Q: Where can I watch updates?
A: Follow official Weibo accounts, DramaPanda, or Tencent Video for behind-the-scenes drops.
Kong Xue’er and Deng Kai’s reunion in Jiang Men Du Hou proves that great on-screen chemistry never goes out of style. Whether you loved their toxic intensity in Pursuit of Jade or are new to the pair, this rebirth drama promises fresh layers of tension, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances.
Stay tuned for more news!
Read: Pursuit of Jade: Deng Kai’s Qi Min Becomes the Drama’s Breakout Character
