Michelle Topham 
Chinese Title: 御赐小仵作 (Yu Ci Xiao Wu Zuo)
English Title: The Imperial Coroner
Release Date: April 29th, 2021 (China)
Original Network: Tencent Video / WeTV / Viki
Genre: Historical, Mystery, Romance, Suspense
Episodes: 36
Language: Mandarin
Region: Mainland China
Plot Synopsis
Set during the Late Tang Dynasty, The Imperial Coroner follows Chu Chu, a young woman from a family of coroners who travels to the capital of Chang’an to pursue her dream of becoming a professional coroner. There she meets Xiao Jinyu, also known as Prince An, a competent but physically delicate prince in charge of criminal legal matters.
The two become investigative partners, using Chu Chu’s sharp forensic skills and Xiao Jinyu’s legal authority to solve a string of mysterious cases. As they unravel an 18-year old blockbuster case that shakes the balance of power in the capital, secrets, political intrigue, and growing personal bonds emerge.
By the end of the series, Chu Chu earns imperial recognition as the Imperial Coroner and fulfills her lifelong goal, and she and Xiao Jinyu solidify their partnership both professionally and personally.
Director & Production
- Director: Lou Jian
- Original Novel: Based on The Imperial Coroner by Qing Xian Ya Tou (清闲丫头)
- Screenwriters: Qian Xiao Bai, Qing Xian Ya Tou
- Production Companies: Tencent Penguin Pictures, Linghe Media
- Filming & Broadcast: Premiered on Tencent Video; also available on WeTV and Viki with subtitles in multiple languages.
Main Cast & Characters
- Su Xiao Tong as Chu Chu
- Wang Zi Qi as Xiao Jinyu (Prince An)
- Yang Ting Dong as Jing Yi
- Zhao Yao Ke as Leng Yue
- Guo Qiu Cheng as Xue Ru Cheng
- Mu Huai Hu as Qin Luan
- Shi Lan Ya as Princess Xiping
- Wang Yan Xin as Xiao Jin Li
- Zong Feng Yan as Han Ji
- Guo Jun as Emperor Xuan Zong
Where to Watch
- Tencent Video – Original Chinese streaming platform.
- WeTV – International platform with subtitles.
- Viki – Free subtitled streaming in various languages.
- YouTube – Official uploads of early episodes with subs.
Notes & Trivia
- The drama is adapted from a popular novel of the same name by Qing Xian Ya Tou, blending historical intrigue with clever detective work and character development.
- It’s a detective historical drama with a strong female lead, combining forensic mystery, court politics, and blossoming romance.
- A Season 2 (Imperial Coroner 2 / 御赐小仵作2) featuring continued adventures of Chu Chu and Xiao Jinyu was announced and began airing in January 2026 on Tencent/WeTV.
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