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Esther Yu (Yu Shu Xin) is a Chinese actress, singer, and former THE9 member known for Love Between Fairy and Devil, My Journey to You, and Youth With You 2. Learn her age, height, dramas, albums, fun facts, and career journey.
Born and raised in Shanghai, Esther Yu developed an interest in fashion, entertainment, and performance from a young age. She later studied Fashion Media and Industries at LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore, where she gained an international perspective that would later influence both her public image and personal style.
She officially entered the entertainment industry in 2016 through the television drama Border Town Prodigal. While she steadily built experience through supporting and secondary roles, her breakthrough came in 2020 when she participated in Youth With You 2.
Her cheerful personality, memorable reactions, and strong fan support helped her finish in the debut lineup of THE9. The group became one of the most successful project girl groups in China before disbanding in December 2021.
Afterward, Esther successfully transitioned into one of China's most sought-after actresses, becoming especially popular among international viewers through fantasy romance dramas.
Esther Yu's appeal comes from her ability to balance star power with authenticity. On screen, she can play everything from lovable romantics to more mature, emotionally layered characters. Off screen, her playful personality and sense of humor make her feel approachable and genuine.
Many fans were first drawn to her through variety shows, but stayed because of her growth as an actress. Her combination of charisma, fashion sense, and steadily improving performances has helped establish her as one of the leading faces of modern Chinese entertainment.
Fan-made pieces inspired by drama nights, bias feelings, and soft delulu moods.
Esther Yu was born and raised in Shanghai, China. Source: MyDramaList
She graduated from LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore with a degree in Fashion Media and Industries. Source: MyDramaList
Esther officially made her acting debut in the 2016 television drama Border Town Prodigal. Source: MyDramaList
Before becoming a full-time actress and singer, she studied fashion and media, giving her a strong foundation in personal branding and style. Source: LASALLE College of the Arts
She gained nationwide popularity after competing on Youth With You 2 in 2020. Source: Youth With You 2
Esther successfully debuted as a member of the project girl group THE9 on May 30, 2020. Source: Youth With You 2
THE9 officially disbanded on December 5, 2021, after completing its project-group activities. Source: THE9
Her cheerful personality and memorable variety-show reactions made her one of the breakout stars of Youth With You 2. Source: Entertainment Media
Esther is known for bringing a unique blend of comedy, charm, and emotional depth to her acting roles. Source: Drama Reviews
Her role as Orchid in Love Between Fairy and Devil became one of the biggest turning points of her career. Source: Drama Industry Coverage
The success of Love Between Fairy and Devil helped introduce Esther to a much larger international audience. Source: Entertainment Media
She is often praised for her expressive facial acting and ability to portray emotionally complex characters. Source: Drama Reviews
Esther has worked as a voice actress in addition to her acting and singing activities. Source: Artist Profile
On December 18, 2022, she released her first mini album, Esther. Source: MyDramaList
Exactly two years later, on December 18, 2024, she released her first full-length album, Spicy Honey. Source: MyDramaList
She is known for her strong fashion sense and frequently appears on best-dressed celebrity lists in China. Source: Fashion Media
Esther has become one of the most influential actresses among China's post-95 generation stars. Source: Chinese Entertainment Media
Her social media popularity consistently places her among the most discussed Chinese actresses online. Source: Entertainment Rankings
Fans often describe her as energetic, funny, and unexpectedly relatable despite her celebrity status. Source: Fan Community Discussions
Esther's successful transition from idol contestant to top drama actress is considered one of the most successful career transformations among her generation of Chinese entertainers. Source: Chinese Entertainment Media