Xiao Zhan's breakout performance as Bei Tang Moran in the fantasy web series Oh! My Emperor turned a supporting role into a cultural phenomenon for fans. Long before leading massive historical hits, his portrayal of the suave, Aquarius-ruled prince gave viewers a masterclass in second-lead syndrome.
If you're diving into this 2018 cosmic-zodiac comedy, understanding Moran's narrative weight, his dynamic with lead Luo Feifei, and how this project shaped Xiao's early career changes how you watch the series. Let's break down everything you need to know about his iconic character and the drama itself.
Who is Bei Tang Moran?
Bei Tang Moran is the Prince Chen and the imperial uncle to the reigning emperor, Bei Tang Yi. Ruling under the sign of Aquarius, Moran possesses a signature astrological power: prophecy and foresight. Unlike the rigid, stoic young emperor, Moran commands deep political and military authority at the start of the series, holding the reins of the state while exuding calm elegance.
He plays the guqin, drifts through scenes in layers of flowing blue and white period robes, and maintains a cool exterior that completely melts whenever he deals with the erratic time-traveling protagonist, Luo Feifei (played by Zhao Lusi). His arc shifts from a cautious royal holding military leverage into a fiercely protective figure who stakes his reputation on keeping Feifei alive against court conspiracies.
The Aquarius Connection and Character Traits
The writers structured the entire fictional world of Huang Dao around Western zodiac signs, and Moran fits his astrological archetype to perfection. Aquarians are known for being detached, visionary, and intellectually independent, yet fiercely loyal to their inner circle.
- The Stance on Power: Moran holds military control not out of greed, but because he foresaw chaos if it was handed over prematurely.
- The Protector Dynamic: Because his foresight reveals Feifei's crucial connection to the survival of the realm, his initial curiosity turns into a profound, unrequited devotion.
- Aesthetic Choices: His styling relies heavily on cool-toned silks, minimalist hair crowns, and deliberate, slow-motion framing that highlights his poise compared to the hotter-headed royals.
Chemistry and the Second-Lead Syndrome
A massive driver of the show's enduring popularity is the palpable dynamic between Xiao Zhan and Zhao Lusi. While Feifei is officially betrothed or drawn to the emperor Bei Tang Yi, her comedic bickering and emotional vulnerability with Moran create intense dramatic tension.
Viewers frequently cite Moran's quiet sacrifice as the emotional anchor of the series. He doesn't resort to loud tantrums or brute force; instead, he offers umbrella coverage in the rain, subtle political maneuvers to shield her from execution, and a gentle understanding of her 21st-century absurdity. This gentle giant persona cemented Xiao's reputation for pulling viewer sympathy away from the nominal main couple.
Production Context and Xiao Zhan's Early Career
Before landing Oh! My Emperor, Xiao Zhan was primarily known as a member of the pop idol group X Nine. Filming took place in late 2017, serving as one of his very first narrative acting projects alongside fellow bandmates like Gu Jiacheng and Wu Jiacheng.
You can trace his raw theatrical instincts here. Without formal acting school training at the time, his reliance on micro-expressions—a slight lift of an eyebrow, a measured pause before speaking, or sorrowful glances—helped him stand out in a crowded, high-concept ensemble cast. It laid the technical groundwork for his later transition into global stardom with dramas like The Untamed.
Common Misconceptions for First-Time Viewers
Many fans stumble into Oh! My Emperor expecting a sweeping, high-stakes political tragedy. Approaching it with the right lens prevents confusion.
- It is a comedy first: The tone pivots wildly between slapstick modern slang thrown by Feifei and melodramatic royal court politics. Don't expect gritty realism.
- Zodiac rules aren't deep magic: The star signs dictate specific supernatural skills (like cloning or telekinesis), but the magic system is secondary to the romantic comedy tropes.
- Xiao Zhan is not the main lead: Despite dominating fan edits across TikTok and YouTube, he shares screen time evenly with an ensemble cast of twelve zodiac lords.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Xiao Zhan get a happy ending in Oh My Emperor?
Without spoiling the final twists of season two, Moran's narrative conclusion aligns with the sacrificial protector trope. His primary goal remains the stability of Huang Dao and Feifei's safety, leading to a bittersweet resolution for his character arc.
How many episodes is Xiao Zhan in?
He appears across both seasons of the drama, which totals 42 episodes. Because he is part of the core supporting power structure, he features prominently in almost every major political and romantic subplot.
Is Oh My Emperor connected to Chinese astrology?
No. Despite featuring ancient fantasy kingdoms, the script exclusively uses Western tropical zodiac constellations (Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, etc.) as the basis for each character's magical ability.
Where can I watch the drama legally?
The series streams internationally through platforms like Tencent Video and Rakuten Viki, complete with multi-language subtitles.