Year-ender: Top 10 cultural events from 2025

9. Variety shows spotlight female voices and energy

Several variety shows drew attention in 2025 by highlighting female perspectives and diverse life stories.

The King of Stand-Up Comedy Season Two introduced breakout performer Fang Zhuren, a 50-year-old woman from rural Shandong, whose humorous yet moving routine about rebuilding her life resonated widely. Judge Yang Tianzhen described her as a symbol of the resilience of Chinese women.

The Blooming Journey Season 2 focused on personal storytelling led by women with an average age of over 60, offering a message of self-respect, confidence, and vitality.

Meanwhile, Wow the World became an instant hit by combining travel, history, and knowledge challenges with ensemble comedy and light tasks, engaging audiences through its high degree of freedom and lively group dynamics.