GQ Cover: Yosh Yu is Writing His Own Rules

Humble and composed—that’s the impression Yu gives before one even meets him in person. His sharply defined features exude a cool, heroic air, yet the slight droop of his eyes adds a layer of melancholy. This young actor possesses an unpolished grace. He approaches every script with seriousness, allowing his on-screen performances to reveal both the sensitivity and resilience of youth, as well as the complexity of human nature and a childlike sincerity. His professionalism can be deeply felt by audiences: From Ji Fa in Creation of the Gods, to the Batay in To the Wonder, and beyond. Yu refuses to be typecast. Acting, for him, is a gateway to the world. He creates characters with artistry and emotion, treating each one like his own flesh and blood, born from careful study, immersion, and performance. Every role offers unique insights, and he finds it impossible to favour one over another.

Though acting has brought him fame, Yu’s deeper feeling is gratitude. For him, spiritual fulfilment far outweighs fame or fortune. Once focused on athletics, becoming an actor opened up his world as each new role pushes him to read widely and research historical contexts beyond the script. He often reads works on logic and philosophy, believing that critical thinking helps him better understand a character’s inner world. For Yu, a role is never just a fictional figure; it is another “person” from a different dimension, and his duty as an actor is to bring that person to life truthfully. In truth, calling Yu a “public figure” may be more fitting than simply an actor. Beyond acting and singing, he is also accomplished in sports and music composition. During the photoshoot, he quietly sat at a piano, improvising melodies. It was a moment that was eternally beautiful.

His poise makes one curious: how does he see himself? In a world where adults often wear masks, especially public figures constantly under the spotlight, Yu’s quiet demeanour stands out. He has ambition but stays grounded. He knows exactly what he’s doing and works tirelessly toward it, proving through his actions that to live authentically means walking one’s chosen path to its fullest, unshaken by external noise.

What does being an actor mean to you?

As an actor, I get to experience far more “lives” than most people. Every time I take on a script, I want to present a new world. Each role feels like living another life. I enjoy those moments of detachment from reality, immersing myself in an unfamiliar world. For instance, playing a boy struggling to survive in a muddy world allows me to see reality with greater maturity. That’s how I gain inspiration. At the same time, as a public figure, I believe I have a responsibility to spread positivity, to act as a cultural ambassador and let audiences worldwide see the richness of our culture and values through my work.

How would you describe your personality after all these experiences?

I think I’m both calm and passionate. It sounds contradictory, but when acting, I’m rational, focused, and professional. Yet in artistic creation, I let my emotions flow freely through words, melodies, and images—that’s where my passion and persistence come out.

Looking back, how have you changed since your early days in sports and entertainment?

I never planned to be an actor. I still remember watching the Olympics when I was eight. When Liu Xiang won for China, the entire nation cheered. That moment inspired me deeply. I thought, “I want to stand on the world stage one day too.” That passion for life still drives me. Honestly, that kind of glory means more to me than any title or award.

You’ve only been in the entertainment industry for a little over two years. Have you ever felt lost?

Although people think my career has been smooth, I’ve definitely had periods of confusion. I’m grateful I chose to believe in my dreams back then. Perseverance brought me the opportunities that led to where I am today.

As a Chinese actor who has also worked internationally, what’s the biggest challenge?

Maintaining confidence without arrogance. To be seen by the world, you need a solid foundation, a strong script and a trustworthy team. But as an actor, what truly matters is depth, skill, charm, and confidence. My background in sports shaped my inner strength. When faced with doubt, I remind myself that victory comes to those who persist. To me, being an actor isn’t just a job; it’s a form of cultural leadership. Since I’ve built a strong foundation, I want to use this platform to showcase my homeland’s talent to the world.

Fame brings attention and pressure. How do you deal with it?

By doing my job well. Outside opinions don’t matter most. When facing challenges, I often step back and observe myself like a third person, as if analysing a character. That helps me stay calm and rational.

What’s your personal style like?

I like to experiment! Everyone’s style is unique, and it takes time to find what suits you best. Fashion is all about details; even a small accessory can change the mood of a simple outfit. For example, I could wear a plain top and jeans today, but by switching between a baseball cap, denim hat, or something with ethnic flair, I can create very different looks. Fashion can truly shape one’s aura.

At the end of the interview, Yu mentioned that he hopes to film a documentary about his life and vision to let audiences see both his on- and off-screen worlds, and share his reflections on life. Listening to him feels like learning from a master far beyond his years, then you suddenly remember, he’s not yet thirty. Perhaps for him, setting new challenges and conquering them one by one is what makes life meaningful. Maybe it’s that mindset that allows him to view the world with such rare calmness.

Photographer: Ren Shenyun
Editorial Director: Jumius Wong 
Creative Direction and Styling : Jenine Oh 
Creative producer and Casting Director: Marina Fairfax 
Grooming: Seven 
Art Director: FeiFei Li
Production Assistant: Chris Chan 
Photo Assistants: Fung Ho, Luo Zhong
Stylist Assistants: Sing Lei, Priscilla Ng 
Location: UCCA Center for Contemporary Arts Laboratory
Car courtesy of Shanghai Tang