Michelle Topham 
Chinese Title: 定风波 (Dìng Fēng Bō)
English Title: The Wanted Detective
Also Known As: Calming Waves
Genre: Historical, Mystery, Detective, Drama
Episodes: 36
Director: Zhao Jin Tao
Screenwriters: Zhang Yun Xiao
Original Work: Original screenplay
Production Companies: iQIYI, Linmon Media, and associated production partners
Plot Synopsis
The Wanted Detective is a historical mystery drama that follows Xiao Bei Ming, a brilliant and principled detective known for his unmatched investigative skills and unwavering sense of justice.
Once respected and feared in equal measure, Xiao Bei Ming becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy when powerful forces frame him for crimes he did not commit. Stripped of his official status and forced into hiding, he becomes a fugitive while secretly continuing to pursue the truth behind a series of complex and interconnected cases.
Zhong Xueman, a sharp-witted and courageous woman with her own secrets and motivations, crosses paths with Xiao Bei Ming during his investigation. Initially cautious of each other, they gradually form a partnership built on mutual trust, intelligence, and shared determination to uncover hidden truths.
As they delve deeper into mysterious crimes involving political intrigue, betrayal, and hidden enemies, Xiao Bei Ming and Zhong Xueman uncover a conspiracy far greater than they imagined — one that threatens not only their lives but the stability of the realm itself.
Together, they must rely on their intelligence, courage, and loyalty to expose the truth and restore justice.
Cast & Characters
Lead Cast
Wang Xing Yue as Xiao Bei Ming
Julia Xiang (Xiang Han Zhi) as Zhong Xue Man
Supporting Cast
- Chen You Wei as Feng Qing Zhuo
- Zhang Nan as Huo Dai Rong
- He Luo Luo as Tong Shuang
- Deng Kai as Zhuge Kong Yun
- Zhang Shao Gang as Fang Tian Zheng
- Feng Hui as Zhuge Tong
- Shao Bing as Zhong Yun Chi
- Zhu Zhi Ling as Li Long
- Nie Zi Hao as Fang Yin
- Han Yu Chen as Liu Feng
- Xiu Qing as Miao Jie
- Niu Chao as Zhu Yi Tie
- Li Xi Man as Qing Ying
Production Details
Original Story – The Wanted Detective is an original historical mystery drama featuring layered detective storytelling, political intrigue, and complex character relationships.
Production Companies – Produced by iQIYI and major Chinese television production partners, ensuring high production values, detailed historical settings, and cinematic visuals.
Filming for the series began on May 9th, 2024, and wrapped on September 11th.
The distribution license for The Wanted Detective was awarded on March 14, 2025.
Episodes & Airing
Total Episodes: 36
Episode Length: 45 minutes
First Aired / Premiere: August 1st, 2025
Final Episode: August 14th, 2025
Original Platform: iQIYI
Where to Watch
China:
iQIYI — Official streaming platform where the drama premiered.
International Platforms:
iQIYI International (iQIYI Global) — Available in supported regions with subtitles.
Why It’s Worth Watching
Compelling Detective Storytelling – The series presents layered mysteries, clever investigations, and suspenseful twists that keep viewers engaged.
Strong Lead Partnership – Wang Xing Yue and Julia Xiang deliver compelling performances, showcasing emotional depth and excellent character chemistry.
Intricate Conspiracy Plot – The drama weaves individual cases into a larger political conspiracy, adding depth and long-term intrigue.
High Production Quality – Detailed historical settings, strong cinematography, and atmospheric storytelling elevate the viewing experience.
Balanced Themes – Combines mystery, suspense, drama, and character-driven storytelling, appealing to fans of historical detective series.
Articles About The Wanted Detective
Cool ‘The Wanted Detective’ billboards grace Guangzhou Zhujiang New Town Metro Station
The Wanted Detective billboards displayed at Dawang Lu subway station in Beijing
9 beautiful ‘The Wanted Detective’ stills release as C-drama series finale drops on iQIYI
About the Author
