Produced by iQIYI and Drama Apple Limited, the historical epic “Legend of the Magnate” premieres on 25 November on iQIYI International. Written and directed by Zhang Ting, it stars Chen Xiao as Gu Pingyuan, a scholar wrongfully exiled during the imperial exams who enters the clandestine salt trade.
The series traces Gu’s rise from exile to becoming a major player in the commercial landscape of the late Qing dynasty. It explores themes of strategy and commerce while depicting challenges like merchant rivalries and economic crises.
Supporting characters include Chang Yuer (Sun Qian), Li Qin (Luo Yizhou), and Chang Si (Cheng Taishen), highlighting that business goes beyond profit to encompass dignity and heritage.
Witness Gu Pingyuan’s journey from scholar to magnate on iQIYI International starting on 25 November.