A new interview with Xiao Zhan by People magazine has gone viral, sparking significant discussion as the actor reflects on his growth and evolution over the last five years.

Five years ago, in a previous interview with People, Xiao Zhan expressed his curiosity about what he would be like in the next five years. Now, the time has come, and Xiao Zhan has shared his thoughts on his transformation. He stated, "I feel like I’ve changed, yet in some ways, I haven't. I think I’ve become more mature and a bit more myself."

People magazine noted that Xiao Zhan's core of sincerity and stability has remained constant. As the publication wrote, "He believes in always moving forward."

According to publicly available information, Xiao Zhan was born on October 5, 1991, and is a Chinese actor and singer. In 2015, he participated in the talent show X-Fire on Zhejiang TV, which marked the beginning of his career.

In 2020, People magazine interviewed the 28-year-old Xiao Zhan, exactly five years after his debut. Xiao Zhan revealed that he never imagined his life would undergo such a massive change.

"As an older young man, I participated in a talent show, joined a teen idol group, and then went on to act. At the start of my acting career, I was extremely insecure. I couldn't find myself, and I didn't know how to express myself naturally in front of the camera," Xiao Zhan said.

He continued, "At that time, my life experiences and understanding of the entertainment industry were so limited. But as I gradually adapted, I realized that many things weren’t as difficult as I’d imagined. I think we need to learn to compromise with life, as long as it doesn't violate our bottom line."

Looking back at his 2015 self in 2020, Xiao Zhan would say, "You’re doing well; keep it up.”

In 2019, the TV drama The Untamed aired, skyrocketing Xiao Zhan to fame. The immense success came unexpectedly. When asked if he was happy, Xiao Zhan responded, "I think I'm fortunate, but happiness is different for everyone."

Regarding whether he would continue acting, he stated, "I can't say that I'll be an actor for life; I can't give you an answer. I feel that being an actor is about spontaneity. If one day I no longer have the passion, I would open a bakery, become a pastry chef, and enjoy the fragrance of cakes and bread – 'a taste of happiness'."

During the interview, Xiao Zhan also sent an invitation to his future self: "I look forward to seeing what Xiao Zhan will be like in another five years."

Between 2020 and 2025, Xiao Zhan has starred in numerous projects. In February 2021, his historical fantasy drama Douluo Continent premiered on CCTV-8. In April, he starred in the acclaimed stage production of A Dream Like A Dream in Wuhan.

In 2023, his period drama The Youth Memories and modern romance drama Sunshine By My Side both aired on CCTV-8. He won the Annual Breakthrough Male Actor Award at the CMG Second China TV Drama Awards for his roles as Xiao Chunsheng and Sheng Yang. On December 30, he appeared in the historical drama The Legend of Zang Hai, directed by Zheng Xiaolong.

Notably, on January 29, 2025, the martial arts film The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Great Hero, directed by Tsui Hark, will be released. Xiao Zhan will portray Guo Jing, a hero who dedicated his life to his country and people.

On December 23, 2024, The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Great Hero released its latest trailer, unveiling Xiao Zhan’s portrayal of Guo Jing.

The trailer shows Guo Jing (Xiao Zhan) battling Ouyang Feng (Tony Leung Ka-fai) on a city wall, showcasing the iconic martial arts moves "Dragon Subduing Palm," "Nine Yin Manual," "One Finger Zen," and "Toad Stance."

The film's official Weibo account stated, “Guo Jing, who is seen as a ‘silly boy’ by others, is a master of incredible martial arts: the Nine Yin Manual, the Dragon Subduing Palm… Each is legendary! The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Great Hero will be released during Chinese New Year 2025."

Xiao Zhan also posted: "Masters make their moves!”