Working In Progress

Yu Shuxin | The Sharp Edges and Sweetness of a Candy Girl

by Quincy InStyle优家
2022-01-20 21:00

If you start out with a label and people remember you because of it, that’s actually a good thing. And if you carry that label for ten years? That’s still pretty great—at least it means you won’t go hungry. To have twenty different labels over the course of a lifetime in showbiz is really impressive—it means you’ve done a lot of things that people actually remember.

– Yu Shuxin

In the makeup room, Yu Shuxin’s laughter easily rose above everyone else’s chatter. She swiveled around in her chair from time to time, casually chatting with the staff on either side of her about everything under the sun—what to eat later that evening, thoughts on a brand’s new limited-edition Lunar New Year handbag, and the latest trending makeup looks, just to name a few. She was so naturally at ease, it felt less like a studio and more like her favorite café hangout with close friends.

When the media staff entered the room, it was as if she flipped a switch. Yu Shuxin sat up straight in her chair, bowed politely, and nodded with respectful warmth. With a sweet yet poised tone, she greeted them with a cheerful, “Hello, media teachers! Then, like the natural host of the day, she effortlessly guided them to their seats: “Feel free to sit a little closer—I don’t mind at all, haha.”

With her sweet, coquettish tone paired with her signature bold and hearty volume, Yu Shuxin gives off a fascinating contrast that challenges the usual expectations of what a “typical girl” should be. She has the soft, delicate charm often associated with girls from the south, but also the cool, sassy confidence of a northern girl. The blend of these qualities is unexpected—yet, much like a “second-glance beauty,” it draws you in more and more over time. Her personality is like a candy: sharp-edged, yet sweet to the taste—leaving a lasting impression that only makes people want to get closer.

The breakout reality show Youth With You 2 in 2020 catapulted Yu Shuxin into an unprecedented level of public attention, placing her among the most talked-about female celebrities of the year. Type her name into any search engine or social media platform, and you’ll be flooded with memes and gifs from the show—her expressive facial reactions and animated body language left a lasting impression. She even trended at the top of the hot search list with just one word: a wide-eyed, unforgettable “Wow!”

In an entertainment industry crowded with carefully crafted personas, Yu Shuxin pays little mind to outside judgment. She openly embraces her emotions and wears her heart on her sleeve,
like a playful sprite stirring up still waters. She may not yet be a rule-breaker in the traditional sense, but when it comes to being herself, there’s hardly anyone who does it more unapologetically than she does.

Her boldness and carefree spirit remain unchanged, whether on or off camera. On set, Yu Shuxin followed the photographer’s direction as she shifted poses, all while sneaking glances at the live monitor out of the corner of her eye. Each time, she couldn’t help but exclaim in delight:
“So pretty! Seriously, it looks amazing!”

In between reviewing shots, there were moments when she couldn’t help but get carried away—
even clapping her hands in praise of the crew when something truly impressed her. These unfiltered reactions shattered the conventional image of a female celebrity as always poised and reserved. But Yu Shuxin has her own take on it:

“Whether it’s through variety shows or acting in dramas, as an entertainer, my job is to bring joy to people. If my personality can make someone smile or feel happy,
then I think that’s something truly amazing.”

Online discourse around Yu Shuxin often swings between two extremes. But when asked about this, she throws you off guard with a cheeky response: “The internet? Which one—DY (Douyin)? Hahaha.” What could’ve turned into a deep, serious conversation is instantly rerouted into something light and playful, thanks to her quick-witted charm. There was once a variety show where the host repeatedly tried to draw out moments of sadness from her during a video interview.
But Yu Shuxin brushed it off with a breezy smile: “My worries? They’re tiny. Really, what right do I have to be sad? I’ve got it so good!”

Some attribute this kind of response to her so-called “performer personality,” while others see it as a reflection of her pure-hearted nature. But to me, it’s a quiet testament to Yu Shuxin’s commitment to the original intent behind her identity as an artist. Upholding that intent takes more than just wit—it requires a rare kind of ease and self-assurance, a graceful disregard for the noise of public opinion.

When Yu Shuxin was 20, she visited a film set where a friend was acting. The moment she saw the filming in action, something clicked. Despite having no background or credentials, she made a bold decision to break into the acting world on her own. She started digging up information, downloaded a few industry-related apps, and added several assistant directors on WeChat—
then began pitching herself directly. “I just went straight up to the ADs and said, ‘I think I’m a great fit for your second female lead role.’ No one responded—they probably thought I was out of my mind,” she laughs. “That’s just how I am—whatever I think, I say. Back then, I really came out of nowhere. I hadn’t acted in a single drama, and yet I was absurdly confident, saying things like, ‘I’m perfect for the second lead.’ But the truth is, at that time, I was nobody.”

To many people, the Yu Shuxin they saw on Youth With You 2 was just putting on a show—acting, being dramatic. But in reality, that’s always been her way of fighting for herself. It’s the same energy, the same spirit, that has carried her every step of the way—and it’s never changed.

When people don’t know you, it’s easy for them to say hurtful things or attack you with careless words. In the past, I used to feel upset inside—thinking, How could you say that about me? But I’ve come to realize: if you want others to truly respect you, that respect has to come from the heart—and the only way to earn it is to keep working hard, to keep proving yourself so that people see you. Some of the things I went through as a child made me understand this early on: respect isn’t given freely—it’s something you have to earn, over and over again.

All roads lead to Rome. On the long journey of life, as long as you carry that fearless spirit of
“Nothing can hold me back,” even when the sky is shrouded in clouds and fog—you’ll still find a way to break through and see the sunrise.

Q&A

Q: Were there any standout moments while filming Love Between Fairy and Devil?
A: During breaks on set, I’d often be in full Xiao Lanhua costume rapping or dancing to trending Douyin (TikTok) routines—it was such a fun time! As for highlights? There were plenty! I mean, come on—I played her, so of course Xiao Lanhua is the most dazzling character of all! [laughs]
(After a moment of thought, she adds:) The styling in Love Between Fairy and Devil is also quite different from typical xianxia dramas. There’s a formal, almost ceremonial look to the costumes—like ancient people dressed in evening wear. And since much of the story takes place in the demon realm, the visual tone is also quite distinct from traditional fantasy dramas.

Q: For rising artists, being labeled with a specific persona can have both pros and cons. How do you see it?
A: (She thinks for a moment, then answers honestly) I feel like it’s just like what people often say these days—hard work alone isn’t enough. As for having a “label,” I think it depends on the stage you’re in. If you start out with a label that helps people remember you, that’s a good thing.
And if, after ten years, you’ve still got a classic, recognizable label—that’s not bad either.
At the very least, it means you won’t go hungry. And if, over the course of your career, you collect twenty different labels—that’s actually amazing. It means you’ve done a lot, and each thing left an impression. So whether it’s more of a help or a hindrance—there’s really no absolute answer to that. (She looks confidently at herself in the mirror and adds with a grin) At the end of the day, I guess I’m just hard work plus good looks.

Q: You wear many hats—actress, girl group member, variety show personality, lifestyle influencer. Which role do you like best?
A: (Without hesitation) They’re all me! I really see them as part of my everyday life—and honestly, they make me happy. Lately, during my downtime, I’ve been throwing myself into being a multi-faceted content creator. Food blogger, fashion blogger, lifestyle sharer… I just want to show everyone more sides of who I am. (Suddenly turning serious) Okay—let me give you a proper answer. What I value most is my identity as an actress. But I also really enjoy being a blogger. As an actress, I get to experience different lives. And as a blogger, I get to share things that are already a real part of my own life. For example, when I played the role of Yu Meiren in A Romance of the Little Forest, she had a lot in common with a fashion blogger—so when I stepped into that role, it didn’t feel like “acting” at all. It was just a natural extension of how I already live.

Q: How did it feel to go from being a contestant on Youth With You to returning as a youth mentor?
A: Staying true to my original intentions—honestly, my mindset hasn’t changed much.
I was who I was back then, and I’m still the same now. I’ve never really felt like I hit any major bumps along the way—nothing’s ever really knocked me down.

Q: The current environment is quite competitive, especially in the entertainment industry. Do you ever feel pressured by that?
A: (She replies breezily) Not even the slightest bit of pressure. I’m just a woman passing through the entertainment industry. I don’t feel burdened at all—I’m just someone doing her own thing.
I don’t compare myself to others, and I don’t get caught up in all that competition. I’m just passing through, wherever life takes me. (Then, with a sigh and a mischievous smile) “How should one interpret that?” Take your time with it. Savor the meaning. Don’t make me explain—some things are better left unsaid.

Q: What have you been reading lately?
A: Xiaohongshu. (Red Book)

CREDITS:

Bags and Jewelry Provided by / 宝格丽 BVLGARI
Photography / 柳宗源（UTTER）
Creative Direction / UTTER
Coordination & Styling / FF
Writer / Quincy
Hair & Makeup / 杨单
Nails / TINT
Producer / 帅又琦
Art / SS
Design / Yan
Photography Assistants / 周文悍、景鑫、达川（UTTER）
Post-Production Support / 索晓捷（UTTER）
Styling Assistants / 小余、Yvorigami
Production Assistant / Huang Xinzhi
Equipment / E3 Studio

InStyle优家画报 21-12-30 11:00

Yu Shuxin graces the cover of #InStyleYoujiaNewYearIssue #YuShuxinInStyleJanuaryCover
As the year draws to a close, InStyle presents an early look at Yu Shuxin’s radiant #NewYearCover, wishing everyone a 2022 as vibrant and colorful as Yu Shuxin herself—full of warmth, brightness, and positive energy. ❤️

InStyle优家画报 21-12-30 12:00

Yu Shuxin’s cover shoot for the #InStyleYoujiaNewYearIssue is officially out! #Yu ShuxinJanuaryCover | #Yu ShuxinRadiantNewYearCover

In an industry crowded with carefully curated personas,Yu Shuxin remains refreshingly unbothered by outside judgment. She wears her emotions openly and unapologetically—
like a sprite stirring up still waters with her unfiltered charm. She may not call herself a rule-breaker, but when it comes to being herself, few do it with more honesty or ease. And that bold, free-spirited energy? It’s just as present off camera as it is on—which is exactly why so many young fans are drawn to her.

1. Yu Shuxin | The Sharp Edges and Sweetness of a Sugar Cube Girl – https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/dCx4Uod6T2lHShuYaZ-IZA
2. Candy Girl – “方糖女孩” literally means “sugar cube girl”—a term often used to describe someone who appears sweet and soft on the outside but may have strength, resilience, or unexpected depth within. The phrase “棱角与甜蜜” highlights that contrast between her sweet charm and her inner edge or character.)
3. “小红书”/Xiaohongshu is a popular Chinese social media and lifestyle platform, often used for sharing beauty tips, fashion, travel, and daily life content. Her answer is humorous and tongue-in-cheek, implying she’s been browsing lifestyle posts rather than reading traditional books.)
4. InStyle优家画报 Weibo: https://weibo.com/uplusweekly
5. InStyle优家画报 21-12-30 11:00 – https://weibo.com/1666485652/L8pPgbUny
6. InStyle优家画报 21-12-30 12:00 – https://weibo.com/1666485652/L8qdrxyIA