Zhai Xiaowen, born on May 28, 1999, in Jinan, Shandong, China, is a Chinese singer and actor who first captured widespread attention through his participation in the idol survival reality show Produce Camp 2019. As a member of the limited-time boy band R1SE, he helped define a generation of Chinese pop music before transitioning into a successful solo career that encompasses both music and acting. Signed to Wajijiwa Entertainment, Xiaowen has demonstrated versatility across multiple entertainment fields, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical recognition.
Xiaowen's journey into the entertainment industry began in 2018 when he participated in the Tencent Video talent show The Coming One 2, where he placed among the top nine contestants in the "Super Visual" category. That same year, he made his acting debut in the youth romance drama Unrequited Love, an adaptation of a popular novel, marking his first foray into on-screen performance. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his breakout moment in 2019, when he joined the competitive survival series Produce Camp 2019. During the show, Xiaowen impressed both judges and audiences with his vocal abilities and charismatic stage presence, ultimately securing sixth place in the final episode on June 8, 2019. This achievement earned him a spot in the eleven-member boy group R1SE, which debuted shortly thereafter and quickly became one of China's most popular idol groups.
As a member of R1SE, Xiaowen contributed to multiple hit albums and singles, performing at major concerts and variety shows across the country. The group's dynamic sound and synchronized performances garnered them a massive following, and Xiaowen's role as a lead vocalist helped establish his reputation as a talented singer. However, R1SE was always intended as a limited-time project, and on June 14, 2021, the group officially concluded all group activities. Following this, Xiaowen launched his solo career under "Zhai Xiaowen Studio," a personal studio operated by Wajijiwa Entertainment, allowing him to pursue individual projects in both music and acting.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Xiaowen has built a notable acting portfolio. He gained particular recognition for his role as Sunflower in the esports-themed romance drama Falling into Your Smile, a series that resonated with younger audiences and showcased his ability to portray charming and relatable characters. He also starred as Jing Qichi in the drama Always Home, further demonstrating his range as an actor. These performances have solidified his status as a rising star in Chinese television, where he continues to balance his dual careers as a singer and actor. With a growing discography and a promising acting career, Zhai Xiaowen remains an influential figure in the Chinese entertainment landscape, admired for his dedication, talent, and the heartfelt connection he maintains with his fans.