Michelle Topham 
Chinese title: 群星 (Qun Xing)
English title: The Stars
Also known as: Stars
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Mystery
Episodes: 16 (reported)
Original Network: Tencent Video (China)
International Streaming: Likely Tencent/WeTV regionally with subtitles (availability varies by region)
Plot Synopsis
The Stars is a near-future sci-fi thriller set in the year 2046 in Jinchuan City. A sudden wave of supernatural terror attacks shocks the metropolis and triggers a mysterious conspiracy that reaches back 20 years to a top-secret research project known simply as “The Stars.”
The story follows Guo Yuan, an ordinary courier who becomes the key figure caught between two powerful factions: the Special Response Bureau (137 Bureau) and the enigmatic Firefly Organization.
As the truth behind the terror attacks and the classified project is slowly uncovered, hidden identities, erased histories, and long-buried secrets emerge.
Guo Yuan and Yun Shan, a skilled agent from the 137 Bureau initially intent on capturing him, are forced into an uneasy alliance. Together, they uncover the truth behind the “Stars” research and ultimately work to thwart the shadowy forces manipulating events from behind the scenes, all while confronting past betrayals, personal loss, and the true cost of scientific ambition.
Main Cast & Characters
- Zhang Xin Cheng as Guo Yuan
- Wan Qian as Bai Hong Yu
- Yan Yi Kuan as Guo Sen Qing
- Shang Yu Xian as Yun Shan
- Li Jiu Xiao as Wang Hai Cheng
- Guest & Supporting Cast: Wang Longzheng (Duan Muhui), Zhou Yemang (Bai Tianming), Ana (Alice), Deng Fei (Ding Xiu), Wang Yutian (Lao Wan), Chen Hao (Zhang Xiao), Casper (Casper), and many others filling diverse roles in the wider ensemble.
Production & Broadcast Info
- Official Filming Period: June 13th – September 29th, 2025 (wrap announced).
- Directors: Ding Ding (丁顶) & Yu Zhang (张羽), who is known for work on hits like Kunlun Tomb and Along with Me.
- Original Creator: Qi Yue (七月), author of the award-winning sci-fi novel 群星 (Qun Xing).
- Screenwriter/Producer: Chen Si Cheng — with credits on Detective Chinatown films and Lost in the Stars.
- Based On: Qun Xing — a Nebula Award-winning sci-fi novel adapted for television.
- Location: China.
- Runtime: ~55 minutes per episode.
- Expected Premiere: 2026
Where to Watch & Subtitles
- Tencent Video: Original domestic streaming platform (China).
- WeTV / Tencent International: Likely to host regional subtitled versions depending on availability and licensing .
Why Fans Are Excited
- High-Concept Sci-Fi: A rare large-scale science fiction drama from China adapted from an award-winning novel, blending mystery, sci-fi, and thriller elements.
- Unexpected Alliances: The partnership between a reluctant everyman and a seasoned agent adds emotional depth to the high-stakes narrative.
- Intricate Worldbuilding: The series delves into secret projects, supernatural phenomena, and ethical questions around scientific discovery and ambition.
- Strong Ensemble Cast: Featuring rising stars and respected actors across both lead and supporting roles.
Articles About The Stars
Zhang Xin Cheng gets ‘The Stars’ Happy Birthday visual of Guo Yuan via Tencent
About the Author
