Every drama fan has that one series they'll defend no matter what anyone says. Maybe critics complained the pacing was slow. Maybe the ending divided viewers. Or perhaps the plot wasn't for everyone.
Drama fans were a simple question:
"What's one C-drama you'll defend no matter what anyone says?"
The responses poured in, and while opinions differed, several titles appeared again and again. These are the dramas that have earned fiercely loyal fanbases and continue to be recommended years after their release.
1. The Untamed
Why fans defend it
No drama received more passionate support than The Untamed. Even years after its release, fans continue to recommend it to new viewers and describe it as one of the greatest Chinese fantasy dramas ever made.
Based on the novel Mo Dao Zu Shi, the story follows Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji as they uncover a conspiracy stretching back sixteen years while navigating loyalty, sacrifice, and friendship.
What fans said
"The Untamed."
Simple. No explanation needed.
That alone says a lot about the reputation this drama has built.
2. Love Like the Galaxy
One of the biggest surprises from the discussion was how often Love Like the Galaxy appeared.
The historical romance follows Cheng Shao Shang, a young woman who grew up without her parents and learns to survive through intelligence and resilience before meeting the mysterious General Ling Buyi.
Several fans admitted it's a long watch, but insisted it's absolutely worth the investment.
One viewer even encouraged another who was only thirteen episodes in to keep going.
3. The Double
Although still relatively new compared with some classics on this list, The Double has quickly developed a devoted following.
Built around revenge, hidden identities, political intrigue and justice, it keeps viewers guessing while delivering plenty of emotional moments.
Several fans included it among their all-time favourites despite acknowledging it receives mixed opinions online.
4. Who Rules the World
If you're looking for action, romance and political intrigue, Who Rules the World continues to be one of the community's most defended dramas.
Its combination of martial arts, strong leads and mature romance makes it a recurring recommendation whenever fans discuss must-watch historical dramas.
5. First Frost
Despite being newer, First Frost has already earned an incredibly loyal fanbase.
Multiple viewers specifically mentioned that they'll defend both the drama and its lead character Sang Yan regardless of criticism.
That's usually a sign a series has created an emotional connection far beyond its storyline.
6. Fated Heart
Another surprise entry.
Several viewers listed Fated Heart among the dramas they would always recommend.
While opinions online vary, fans praised its romance and emotional storytelling enough for it to appear repeatedly throughout the discussion.
7. Pursuit of Jade
Pursuit of Jade has clearly built a passionate audience.
Fans repeatedly grouped it alongside some of the biggest modern historical romances, praising its compelling characters and memorable relationships. It has also been frequently recommended in recent drama communities for viewers looking for romance mixed with intrigue.
8. Overdo
Perhaps the biggest surprise on the list.
Several fans specifically defended Overdo, explaining that although some viewers criticised the storyline as confusing, they loved its emotional depth.
One fan summed it up perfectly:
They praised the persistent male lead, describing him as protective, unwavering in his love, and willing to sacrifice everything for the woman he loves.
That's exactly the kind of comment that creates curiosity.
9. Hidden Love
Even though Hidden Love often sparks debate because of its age-gap romance, fans in our discussion made it clear they believe the series deserves its popularity.
One viewer wrote that it will always remain their favourite regardless of criticism.
10. Princess Weiyoung
Years after airing, Princess Weiyoung continues to attract loyal fans.
Several people insisted it remains one of the very best historical Chinese dramas and refused to accept criticism of it.
That's impressive longevity.
11. Love Between Fairy and Devil
Fantasy romance doesn't get much bigger than this.
When a cheerful fairy accidentally awakens the feared Demon Lord Dongfang Qingcang, both their destinies change forever as love begins to grow between sworn enemies.
Fans continue to praise its chemistry, world-building and unforgettable soundtrack.
12. Ashes of Love
A modern xianxia classic.
The story follows Jin Mi, a flower fairy unable to experience love after her mother seals away her emotions, until fate places her between two powerful immortals.
Even today, many fans still recommend it as one of the essential Chinese fantasy romances.
13. Story of Minglan
Several commenters admitted Story of Minglan starts slowly.
But almost everyone defending it made the same point:
Stick with it.
Fans praised its realistic family dynamics, character growth, and mature storytelling, calling it one of the most rewarding historical dramas to finish. It also remains a frequent recommendation within the C-drama community.
14. Till the End of the Moon
Although it topped our previous article about dramas that made fans cry, it also appeared repeatedly here.
The fantasy romance follows Li Susu, who travels five hundred years into the past to prevent Tantai Jin from becoming the Devil God and destroying the world.
Fans acknowledge its heartbreaking story, but that's exactly why so many continue defending it.
15. Blossom
Rounding out the list is Blossom.
It may not have received as many mentions as some of the bigger titles, but it consistently appears in recommendation threads alongside dramas like Pursuit of Jade and The Double, showing it has quickly earned a loyal audience.
Final Thoughts
Popularity comes and goes.
But the dramas on this list have something different.
They've inspired passionate communities of fans who continue recommending them long after the credits roll.
Whether you love historical romances, xianxia adventures, revenge stories or emotional slow-burn relationships, these are the dramas fans say they'll defend no matter what.
If you're searching for your next obsession, this list is an excellent place to start.