Ever since Li Yi Tong (李一桐) made her debut in 2016, the actress-singer’s trajectory in the showbiz has been pretty impressive. We first took notice of her as Nie Qing Cheng in “Demon Girl”. Since then, she been captivating audiences with her versatile performances.
Her latest role as Ai Qing (aka Appledog) in “Go Go Squid 2: Dt. Appledog’s Time” (我的时代，你的时代) is no different. The 30-year-old also got candid about her first impression of Hu Yi Tian (胡一天) – and it wasn’t very good. Thankfully, their relationship offscreen solidified over time.
Check out the interview (courtesy of iQiyi International) below:
1. Were there any cheesy scenes between DT and AppleDog that made your hair stand?
We normally have to do multiple takes for scenes where we have to act spoilt in. I got goosebumps the first time I opened the note in the chocolate, which said “You are the apple of my eye”.
2. You have been playing modern dramas recently, and “Go Go Squid 2 Dt. Appledog’s Time” is a drama related to mecha fighting. What were your concerns and challenges?
In terms of challenges, my character is highly accomplished in mecha combat. So I had to always remain extremely serious and professional.
3. Although this is the first time you have acted in a drama with Hu Yi Tian (胡一天), it seems like you’ve known each other for years. How did you guys bond?
We are both the kind of people who will open their hearts well after knowing each other a little better. Eating on set with Teacher Hu and the production crew builds camaraderie as well.
4. Did your impression of Hu change over time?
At first, I felt he was closed off and distant. But once we got to know each other, I realised he doesn’t take himself too seriously and is quite humorous – which is why he’s perfect as DT.
5. Since AppleDog and DT are competitors, how did y’all approach each scene?
I try to strike a balance between my relationship and career. I try to show my emotions when playing. In fact, the largest challenge is that there were many sweet scenes, and AppleDog needed to be both sweet and rational at the same time.
6. Any interesting moments you can share while filming “Go Go Squid 2 Dt. Appledog’s Time”?
Once during a scene, I accidentally sprained my foot, and Teacher Hu came and carried me in his arms. I was quite surprised.
7. Name three reasons why we should not miss “Go Go Squid 2 Dt. Appledog’s Time”.
Fine-looking couples, tooth-achingly sweet scenes, and love strategy tactics.
8. What do you think is the most romantic plot in this play?
There are many romantic plots. The scenes after we got together are very sweet. I remember a scene in which DT proposed to AppleDog. You would not want to miss it.
9. Do you have any words for your Malaysian fans?
Hello, I’m Li Yi Tong. Thank you very much for your support and attention to “Go Go Squid 2 Dt. Appledog’s Time”. I hope you can also meet your true love like DT and AppleDog, and get your wish fulfilled in the new year. Love you!
All 38 episodes of “Go Go Squid 2: Dt. Appledog’s Time” (我的时代，你的时代) are available on iQiyi platforms.
