The animated film Ne Zha 2, a box office sensation in China, has captivated audiences and shattered records. One of the standout elements of the film is the voice of its villain, Wuliang Xianweng, brought to life by Wang Deshun, an 89-year-old actor and model. Wang, often referred to as China’s coolest grandpa, is admired for his youthful vigor and striking fitness, making him an ideal choice for the character, who starts off as friendly but later reveals a more ruthless and ambitious side.
Wang has become a symbol of vitality and age-defying energy in China. In 2015, at the age of 79, he stunned viewers by walking shirtless on the runway at China Fashion Week. This bold move helped solidify his reputation as a man who refuses to be constrained by his age. Wang’s journey is filled with diverse accomplishments. Born in Shenyang, he initially worked as a tram conductor and factory worker before transitioning to acting at the age of 24. However, after decades of acting, Wang felt his career stagnate and moved to Beijing to reinvent himself.
To break new ground, Wang began training his body to create more expressive performances on stage. At the age of 65, he took up horseback riding, and by 80, he was learning to DJ under his daughter’s tutelage. At 85, he earned a pilot’s license, setting a record as China’s oldest licensed pilot. Despite his age, Wang demonstrated remarkable physical prowess, passing two rigorous medical exams and demonstrating his determination by studying for months to succeed.
Wang’s iconic status continued to grow when he graced the runway once again at Shanghai Fashion Week in 2022, impressing fans with his youthful energy. His acting career also remains impressive, with notable roles in Chinese films and TV shows such as Chuang Guandong, Reign of Assassins, and 20 Once Again. Wang also lent his voice to the animated film Big Fish & Begonia in 2016.
When it came to Ne Zha 2, Wang voiced Wuliang Xianweng in June 2022. Despite knowing little about the plot, Wang delivered his lines with exceptional skill in just three days of dubbing. Even though his character is the antagonist, Wang’s own life is reminiscent of the resilient and determined spirit of Ne Zha, a character who also fights against fate and injustice.
Ne Zha 2 has become a massive success, earning over nine billion yuan ($1.2 billion) since its release on January 29, making it the highest-grossing film in China.
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