A high-ranking official and wealthy patron who attends the opera and gifts Dieyi a ceremonial sword. He pursues Dieyi romantically and later uses his influence to secure Dieyi's release from military trial after being blackmailed by Juxian. He is eventually sentenced to death under the new communist regime.
A once-wealthy gambler who loses his family home and then makes a living performing shadow puppetry. Husband to Jiazhen and father to Fengxia and Youqing, he survives war and political upheaval, including the loss of his son and daughter. In old age, he remains hopeful about the future of his grandson.
A 38-year-old single actor with limited performance opportunities who helps establish the dream-experience service.
Loyal subordinate and strategist for the bandit governor.
Yin Cheng is a physician and the central tragic hero of the story. He protects the Zhao clan’s surviving infant, sacrifices his own child to mislead Tu'an Gu, and then raises the heir inside Tu'an Gu’s household while secretly planning revenge. His loyalty is closely tied to Gongsun Chujiu, his wife, and Han Jue.
The ruthless usurper who murders his brother to claim the throne and forces his marriage to Empress Wan. He frequently attempts to eliminate Crown Prince Wu Luan through staged accidents and border ambushes. Ultimately, he is outsmarted by the Empress, drinks poisoned wine during a banquet, and commits suicide.
A wealthy, decadent playboy, Zhu Hongcai marries Gu Manlu and becomes central to Gu Manjing’s tragedy. Attracted to Gu Manjing, he participates in the scheme that imprisons and abuses her, resulting in their son. Years later, remorseful for his crime, he remains connected to Gu Manjing, who chooses to stay with him for their child despite continuing to hate him.
Uncle Bill is the leader of a small gang of thieves traveling on the train. He initially orders his followers not to steal, but becomes interested in recruiting Wang Bo after witnessing his exceptional skills. When Wang Bo refuses, the rivalry escalates, and Uncle Bill ultimately tries to take Sha Gen's money before being confronted.
Military commander figure, likely representing wartime or occupation forces.
Charismatic entrepreneur navigating love, modern relationships, and personal growth across decades.
A laid-off Beijing cameraman and photographer who is hired by Lucy to shoot a documentary and later takes charge of planning Don Tyler's controversial 'comedy funeral'.
Yan Shouyi is a television host whose secret affair with Wu Yue drives the central conflict. He routinely deletes their messages and call records before returning home, lies to his wife Yu Wenjuan about his activities, and switches off his cellphone while meeting Wu, deepening the risk of discovery.
Ge You has 69 screen credits in a career dating back to 1983. Their work spans 6 cinematic universes — most prominently If You Are the One Series with 3 titles. Signature works include Farewell My Concubine, To Live, The Dream Factory. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.
Universe traveler — spans 6 universes
Related entry on Wikidata (Q2658847), public domain (CC0).
