A Son’s Grief and a General’s Glow: Zhang Yaodong Tributes Late Father While Zhang Linghe Faces "Foundation General" Backlash

Singapore-based actor Zhang Yaodong pays a heartfelt tribute to his late father, while C-drama star Zhang Linghe faces criticism for his polished look in "Pursuit Of Jade."

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 11:22 AM EDT

Source: CNA Lifestyle

Zhang Yaodong: A Heartfelt Farewell to a "Hardworking Man"

On March 31, 2026, actor Zhang Yaodong took to Instagram to announce the passing of his father at the age of 81. In an emotional post featuring a childhood photo, the 48-year-old actor described his father as a man of few words who "always shared the joys and kept the hardships to himself." Zhang recalled his father’s relentless work ethic, from frying char kway teow to preparing roasted meats, even standing at his post while enduring physical pain from severe burns.

Zhang expressed deep regret for being based abroad in Singapore for much of his career, stating, "I'm sorry that I was always abroad and couldn't be by your side more often." He concluded the tribute by wishing his father a peaceful rest in a "place of happiness," promising that they would meet again.

The "Foundation General": Zhang Linghe Under Fire

In the world of C-dramas, Pursuit Of Jade lead Zhang Linghe has found himself at the center of a viral debate. Playing the role of war general Xie Zheng (the Marquis of Wu’an), the 28-year-old actor has been jokingly dubbed the "foundation general" by viewers who feel his on-screen look is too refined for a battle-hardened military leader.

The Criticism: Social media users quipped that the character looks like he "wakes up at 4am to do makeup before a 6am battle," arguing that his flawless complexion lacks the "masculine edge" required for a wartime setting.