Actor loses work as AI-generated short dramas dominate Chinese market
Chinese actor Xu Peng reportedly stopped receiving acting work after AI-generated short dramas became dominant in his industry, forcing him to return to his hometown to sell vegetables. By the first quarter of 2026, over 95% of short dramas launched in China were AI-made, and multiple actors reported inability to find roles.
What happened
Actor Xu Peng, who graduated from the Central Academy of Drama and appeared in dramas including 《且试天下》 and 《暗河传》, transitioned to short dramas in 2025 and became popular for "domineering CEO" (霸总) roles. After completing his last acting role in March 2026, he reported receiving no further work invitations.
Xu Peng attributed the loss of work to the rapid expansion of AI-generated short dramas in the Chinese market. By the first quarter of 2026, over 95% of short dramas launched in China were AI-produced. He returned to his hometown in Shandong to work with his grandfather's vegetable business, driving a three-wheeled electric vehicle to sell onions, scallions, and bean sprouts at local markets.
Reported impact
Xu Peng's monthly income from selling vegetables is reportedly only several thousand yuan, a significant decline from his acting career peak when he worked 15 to 16 hours daily. Other actors have reported similar employment crises due to AI displacement in the short drama industry.
Index analysis
AI short dramas operate at dramatically lower costs—reportedly one-tenth the expense of using human actors—and require no makeup, rest breaks, or actor management. The technology has enabled rapid market saturation with AI-produced content over a short period.
The scale of displacement is substantial: by early 2026, AI production dominated over 95% of new short drama releases in China. Multiple established actors including Zhang Xiaolei (former "short drama era" lead) and Han Dong (known for 《步步惊心》) have publicly stated they cannot find acting roles.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.