‘Story of Yanxi Palace’ stars Wu Jinyan and Hong Yao announces marriage

Chinese actress Wu Jinyan and actor Hong Yao. Photo from Weibo

The couple posted photos of their marriage certificate along with a picture of them in white shirts against a red background on Weibo, each captioning their post with "Got it today" and "Married today," taking fans by surprise. The announcement quickly became a top trending topic on Weibo.

According to Sinchew, the couple has not yet revealed any wedding plans. Their sudden announcement has sparked speculation that Wu might be pregnant. Fans have observed her wearing loose clothing and noted a slightly rounded belly. Additionally, her careful walking has further fueled rumors that she could be five months pregnant.

Back in 2019, rumors circulated that the two were dating after netizens reportedly spotted them on vacation together in Bali, Indonesia. Wu denied the rumors at the time, according to The Straits Times.

Yu Zheng, the executive producer of "Story of Yanxi Palace" and co-founder of the entertainment company managing Wu, responded to a netizen questioning why Wu had denied dating rumors in 2019. Yu replied: "It’s a private matter. Why did she have to announce that she was dating to everyone?"

Wu, 34, and Hong, 32, rose to fame through their roles in the popular period drama "Story of Yanxi Palace" (2017). Set during the Qing dynasty, Wu played the lead role of Wei Yingluo, a palace maid who becomes the emperor’s most beloved and powerful concubine, while Hong portrayed Prince He, or Hongzhou, the emperor’s younger brother.