Zhang Yu
Known For
Acting
Born
1982-09-25 in Guizhou, China
Biography
Zhang Yu (born September 25, 1982, in Guizhou, China) is a prominent actor from Mainland China, known for his transformative roles and deep commitment to independent cinema. Formerly credited under the name Zhang Xin, he is celebrated for embracing complex characters and unconventional projects, earning the reputation of being a "drama addict" within industry circles. With over a decade dedicated to supporting and promoting independent films, Zhang has become an influential figure among contemporary Chinese actors. He rose to international attention with his powerful performance as Yu Cheng in An Elephant Sitting Still (2018), followed by widely praised roles in Dying to Survive, A Cool Fish, and Back to the Wharf. His work often explores themes of morality, societal pressure, and emotional nuance, setting him apart as a master of subtle intensity. Zhang Yu has continued to expand his creative reach, appearing in more than 29 productions including film and television. He also serves as a part-time visual artist and script consultant, further reflecting his multifaceted approach to storytelling.
Most Known For
The First Shot
as Jiang Xiaohai
Man's Inhumanity to Man
as Chen Ruping / Ryohei Arakawa
Nice View
as Ma Yue
An Elephant Sitting Still
as Yu Cheng
Dying to Survive
as Yellow Hair
My People, My Homeland
as Policeman
She's Got No Name
as Dr. Liang
A Cool Fish 2
as Chen Sanjin
Her Story
as Xiao Ma
Snipers
as Liu Wenwu
Are You Lonesome Tonight?
as The Blind Singer
She's Got No Name: Part Two
A Cool Fish
as Hu Guangsheng
The One
The Year of the Everlasting Storm
Heroes of Dunhuang
as Lang Yaozi
Tainted Love
as Lin Zhiguang
The Old Dog
Three Words
People Mountain People Sea
as Guizhou Police Officer