In the drama, Mao's steadfast gaze symbolizes hope amid adversity. "Passion, blood, perseverance, fearless courage. … Through this drama, I have experienced my own growth — growing alongside Chairman Mao, growing alongside our people's army," Wang says.

Glorious Struggle airs on CCTV-1 and major streaming platforms including iQiyi, Tencent Video, Youku, Mango TV, Bilibili and Migu. With a peak audience share of nearly 13.7 percent, it has set a new benchmark for revolution-themed dramas.

Breaking from the traditional chronological style, Glorious Struggle uses character-driven narratives to bring history alive. With rich storytelling, meticulous cinematography, and compelling performances, it depicts young Chinese Communists, led by Mao Zedong, holding fast to their ideals amid bloodshed and hardship, overcoming enormous challenges, and ultimately finding a democratic revolutionary path suited to China's realities.