#China #Beijing #iQIYI #Conservation #Born to Be Alive

iQIYI's New Drama 'Born to Be Alive': A Celebration of Conservation

On January 30, 2026, iQIYI, China's foremost online entertainment platform, unwrapped its latest drama series, "Born to Be Alive". This realistic narrative takes viewers deep into the unknown realm of wildlife rangers, transforming their lesser-known stories into a compelling and heartfelt drama. Unlike typical shows that merely use conservation as a backdrop, this series thrusts the topic into the spotlight, framing it within an engaging tale that intertwines elements of crime, survival, and complex family dynamics. The rangers are depicted battling not only poachers but also the tough choices that arise from the tension between survival and ecological accountability.

Set against the stunning yet challenging landscapes of the Sanjiangyuan region in Qinghai Province, the series draws inspiration from actual events from the 1990s. This location is particularly poignant, reflecting the ongoing struggle between rapid economic development and the urgent need for ecological preservation. The narrative follows a dedicated team of rangers whose primary mission revolves around halting poaching activities and safeguarding a delicate ecosystem, which is constantly under threat from extensive developmental pressures.

The series boasts a talented cast led by Zi Yang, with a special appearance by actor Ge Hu. The production team logged an impressive 188 days of on-location filming in the high-altitude, remote areas of Qinghai, pushing through adversities such as extreme cold and thin air to authentically replicate the strenuous realities faced by rangers during their patrols and confrontations. This dedication not only captures the physical trials of the characters but elevates the landscape itself to an essential co-star, encapsulating the raw beauty and harshness of nature intertwined with human stories.

Xiaohui Wang, Chief Content Officer at iQIYI, expressed the company’s aspiration with the series, stating that it "embodies the true spirit of long-form storytelling." Wang added, “Our greatest achievement lies in continually pushing creative and physical boundaries to deliver a work that reflects the power of nature and the resilience of life.”

The audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with "Born to Be Alive" emerging as one of the most discussed Chinese dramas of the current season. Just before its official launch, the series garnered over 2 million advance reservations on iQIYI, indicating a robust appetite for narratives that address pressing social issues. Following its release, the content popularity index shot beyond 8,500 by February 4, coupled with 887 trending topics across major Chinese social media platforms like Weibo and Douyin.

This trend underscores not only the show's commercial success but also iQIYI's ongoing commitment to creating meaningful, long-form storytelling. With "Born to Be Alive", iQIYI pays homage to the often-overlooked guardians of nature, demonstrating a successful blend of entertainment value and social impact. This endeavor positions iQIYI as a leader in producing content that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, effectively bridging the gap between compelling drama and critical environmental issues.

As viewers engage with the gripping narrative of "Born to Be Alive", it's clear that this series does not just tell a story; it seeks to inspire action and awareness about the vital importance of conservation efforts in contemporary China and beyond.