SINGAPORE – Netflix has launched new Mandarin series Meteor Garden 2018. Scripted, directed and produced by multi-talented showrunner Angie Chai, who teams up with renowned producer Adam Tsuei, this new rendition will recreate the sensation, which swept Asia 17 years ago. Meteor Garden 2018 introduces a new generation of the “F4” cast with talents including Xu Xi Di, Amber Kuo and Harlem Yu.

Meteor Garden 2018 premiered exclusively on Netflix globally excluding Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. In most APAC markets, the first six episodes were made available on July 13, with six new weekly episodes to be added to the service every Friday. The series will premiere in Korea and Japan at a later date.

“Meteor Garden debuted in 17 countries and was well-received across Asia in 2001,” said Chai. “It was a drama series loved by many, including teenagers and young adults. The new rendition is re-adapted for the millennial generation from story, script to an on-demand viewing platform so that a new generation of viewers will enjoy this classic love story. Netflix is top-of-mind for me as the platform to present this classic remake because it will showcase the unique charisma of Asian idol dramas to a global audience. The new Meteor Garden also sets a new high for Mandarin idol drama.”

Adam Tsuei, chief producer of Meteor Garden, has worked with Chai on many popular Mandarin television productions and the duo is once again reunited for this highly-anticipated remake. He said: “There was a lot of pressure on sourcing for the right partners and resources when we made the decision to remake this pop classic. Thanks to our track record of successes and the support from Netflix, the reputation of Meteor Garden 2018 precedes its actual debut.”

“Netflix wants to discover charming stories from every corner of the world for our global members. Meteor Garden is a must-watch classic,” said Rob Roy, Vice President, Content Asia at Netflix. He added: “With Chai’s creativity and unique vision for idol drama, it is delightful to bring the brand new Meteor Garden 2018 to Netflix global members. Netflix members will enjoy the show no matter if they are fans already or new to this series.”

Meteor Garden 2018 is scripted, directed and produced by Angie Chai, a TV pioneer in Taiwan. The four male characters will be played Dylan Wang (Daoming Si), Darren Chen (Huazelei), Leon Leong (Meizuo) and Caesar Wu (Ximen).

Two key actresses will be played by Shen Yue (Shancai) and Xu Xi Di (Daoming Zhuang). Special appearances include Amber Kuo and Harlem Yu. This classic love story will be reinterpreted with a fresh and young perspective.

In 2001, Chai adapted Japanese manga Boys Over Flowers into the first TV series in Asia. Its popularity inspired many idol series over the next decade. The series was later adapted into several other Asian languages and became a classic in Asia.

Watch the Netflix trailer for Meteor Garden 2018:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87Q8hTratnM&w=560&h=315]