In a defining moment on July 4th's episode of China's blockbuster variety show Keep Running, Li Yunrui didn't just leap across a 7-meter gap – he vaulted into a new stratosphere of fame. Perched on a swing high above a swimming pool, the actor-athlete released his grip at the perfect apex, landing flawlessly on the distant mat. The feat, captured in countless viral clips and met with stunned reactions from co-stars like Zheng Kai and Fan Chengcheng, sent social media into overdrive, amassing over 400 million engagements overnight.
This gravity-defying jump wasn't merely a stunt; it crystallized a trajectory years in the making, showcasing the potent blend of physical prowess, disciplined preparation, and magnetic screen presence that defines his burgeoning career. As audiences marveled at his "legendary core strength," Li was simultaneously orchestrating another kind of leap: a commanding sweep across the commercial landscape and a deepening commitment to his craft, all while building fervent anticipation for his upcoming historical drama, Feast Encounter in Yong'an (宴遇永安).
The Athletic Engine
Li Yunrui's 7-meter swing jump wasn't an isolated flash of brilliance; it was the latest eruption of a long-simmering athletic volcano. Viewers familiar with his past instantly recalled his dominance at the 2020 Supernova Games, where his seemingly effortless clearance of the 1.80m high jump bar earned him the title "High Jump Overlord." That same explosive power and precise body control, honed through relentless training despite a packed filming schedule, fueled the Keep Running spectacle. His ability to execute such a demanding physical feat under pressure speaks volumes about his dedication.
While many actors prioritize appearance, Li invests equally in functional strength, maintaining rigorous running and gym routines that translate directly into on-screen dynamism and off-screen endurance. This commitment provides a tangible foundation for the high-energy action sequences demanded by projects like Feast Encounter in Yong'an and the gritty survival drama Ice Lake Rebirth (冰湖重生). His athleticism isn't just for show; it's an integral part of his professional toolkit, enabling him to embody physically demanding roles with authenticity and execute complex stunts that captivate audiences.
The viral "legendary core" hashtag celebrates more than just abdominal muscles; it recognizes the disciplined engine driving his multifaceted career.
Brand Magnetism
The week of his Keep Running triumph wasn't solely about athletic glory; it marked an unprecedented commercial trifecta. Within just four days, Li Yunrui announced major partnerships spanning three distinct sectors, demonstrating remarkable market versatility.
On July 2nd, he became the face of Alpenliebe candy, embodying playful joy in ads promoting their "So Chewy" range, with the brand citing his "sunny, energetic image" as the perfect match. Mere hours later, he transformed into the ethereal "Spirit Cat Magician" Seviel for Game for Peace (Peacekeeper Elite). The character's silver-white hair, heterochromatic eyes, and aristocratic aura ignited cross-fandom excitement, propelling the related hashtag past 100 million views and driving massive in-game skin sales. The most resonant partnership, however, came with Safeguard.
Leveraging organic fan comparisons labeling him "entertainment's Safeguard" during Blossom's (九重紫) popularity, the brand swiftly appointed him ambassador. Just four months later, recognizing his potent alignment with their clean, trustworthy image and soaring commercial impact, Safeguard elevated him to full spokesperson. This rapid ascent, alongside existing partnerships with giants like PepsiCo (Lay's), Land Rover, North Face, and Chow Tai Fook, cements his status as a marketer's dream – capable of lending credibility and appeal across food, gaming, personal care, apparel, mobility, and luxury sectors with seamless authenticity.
Crafting the Arc
Beyond the physical feats and brand deals lies the core of Li Yunrui's ascent: his evolving acting prowess. The same Keep Running episode that showcased his athleticism also offered a masterclass in emotional subtlety. During a timed crying challenge, while others opted for comedic exaggeration or technical precision, Li delivered a moment of startling vulnerability. Gazing at a simple fishbone, he summoned genuine tears, his eyes reddening with a palpable sense of loss that transformed the absurd prompt into something resembling poignant melodrama.
Viewers flooded the screen with praise like "Crying textbook!" acknowledging his ability to find deep emotional truth even in the most unlikely scenarios. This skill, glimpsed in the emotional complexity of his breakthrough role in Blossom, is being rigorously tested and expanded in demanding upcoming projects.
He steps into the intricate political and martial world of Banquet of Eternal Peace, navigates the comedic fantasy of Synthesis Order, and endures the harsh physical and emotional trials of Ice Lake Rebirth. Filming has also begun on the modern drama Dazzling, and anticipation builds for Princess Shang, marking his third collaboration with Meng Ziyi. Each role presents a unique challenge, demanding versatility Li is actively cultivating, proving his commitment extends far beyond fleeting viral moments to sustained artistic growth. The discipline honed in the gym directly fuels the stamina required for these diverse, challenging performances.
