Keep Running, the Chinese version of Korea’s hit TV show Running Man, is back but where will Angelababy, Li Chen and Cai Xukun be?

May 24 , 2020

Keep your shirt on – actor Zheng Kai will be returning to the eighth season of Keep Running. Photo: 163.com

Delayed because of coronavirus, filming is now underway for the next season of the hit reality TV show, but scheduling conflicts mean the contestants have had a surprise shake-up – so who made the final cut?

Millions have tuned in to the variety show Keep Running – the Chinese version of Korea’s Running Man. Each episode features celebrities completing missions and competing against each other to win a race. The show has achieved some of the highest ratings in China. Due to its tremendous success, the eighth season is returning to the screen soon.

Like season seven, there are major changes due to scheduling conflicts of previous cast members. For the past few weeks, the show has slowly revealed who will be staying or leaving, plus new guests. And here’s what we know so far.

Recording began on April 28

On March 15, the show’s producers confirmed filming had finally begun because of declining cases of Covid-19 in China. The first episode of the eighth season was recorded in Hangzhou from April 28 to 30. Photos released show the new gang furiously racing with guests suggesting we’re in for a thrilling and fun show.

Cast members new and old

Three members from season seven will join the next season. Celebrities Angelababy, Zheng Kai (also known as “little cheetah”) and Li Chen (ex-boyfriend of actress Fan Bingbing and known as “big black bull” on the show) are set to return.

Zhu Yawen, Wang Yanlin and Song Yuqi from the last season will each be replaced by new members. Chinese actor and director Sha Yi, who was a guest star in season six, will join the Keep Running family. His episode garnered 6.9 million views on YouTube alone, which could be a testament to his comic talent.

But who is out for good?