Eddie Peng, Sean Lau Lead Chinese-Language ‘Night Manager’ Adaptation
The Ink Factory and 127 Wall Productions have recently wrapped production on a Chinese-language adaptation of the popular espionage thriller “The Night Manager” for the Alibaba-owned streaming platform Youku. The 12-episode series features a star-studded cast led by Eddie Peng and Sean Lau, with filming taking place in various locations across Asia.
Eddie Peng, known for his roles in acclaimed films such as “Black Dog” and “Operation Mekong,” portrays Jonathan Chan, the series’ version of the protagonist Jonathan Pine. On the other hand, Sean Lau, recognized for his work in “Detective vs Sleuths” and “Papa,” takes on the role of arms dealer Richard Kwok, based on the character Richard Roper. The cast also includes Isabella Leong as Jed Cheung and Carman Lee as ICAC investigator Angela Fok.
Directed by Kelvin KinLong Chan, whose previous work “Hand Rolled Cigarette” earned him the Hong Kong Film Award for best new director, the series is set to premiere on Youku in mainland China in late 2026. The storyline has been adapted to an Asian setting, following Jonathan Chan as he navigates a world of intrigue and espionage in an attempt to infiltrate Richard Kwok’s illegal arms trading operation.
The production boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Donghui Wang, Julia Song, Chris Cornwell, Joe Tsai, and Arthur Wang. The collaboration between The Ink Factory and Youku signifies a significant step towards fostering diverse storytelling and industry-standard production practices.
Quan Xianglan, general manager of Youku’s Shining Studio, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the blend of Eastern and Western storytelling in the series. The creative team behind the adaptation is dedicated to creating a fresh and unique interpretation of John le Carré’s timeless story, catering to a global audience.
The Ink Factory, in partnership with 127 Wall Productions, has been at the forefront of producing intelligent dramas with universal appeal. Their commitment to bridging cultures through storytelling is evident in their adaptation of “The Night Manager” for the Chinese-speaking world.
Overall, the collaboration between The Ink Factory, 127 Wall Productions, and Youku represents a groundbreaking initiative in the realm of international television production. With a talented cast and crew, the Chinese-language adaptation of “The Night Manager” promises to captivate audiences with its thrilling narrative and compelling characters.
