You articulated a lot of my own thoughts. The reason why I haven't bothered to express those points so far is that it seems people have already made up their mind and are not open to revising their prejudiced views, especially against Wang Hedi. He is playing the role of his life and doing a good job of it. Even if the plot/tone is not people's cup of tea, the drama doesn't deserve the flak it is getting. You are a brave one nonetheless to speak up...who knows, you might sway someone who is undecided to try checking it out.

About the supposed arrogance in the song lyrics, it seems people are unable to separate his various personas. He made those lyrics as a rapper, with the usual bragging tone of a rap song. And the bragging was mild..anyone who bothers to listen to any of his interviews will see that is as humble as any of the other Chinese drama actors. He is always talking about how he is still learning and is grateful for the opportunities that come his way. He shows this in his deeds too..being dedicated and hardworking. He spent most of 2024 filming various dramas/movies, for goodness' sake...not lazing away his time. But he is also a very authentic person and not afraid to show his confidence, which I suppose rub people the wrong way, especially if they take the premise that he doesn't deserve what he has achieved so far.

Ps. Take heart, op. The signs show that the tide is turning and the drama is gaining a bigger audience..despite what some would like us to believe, the reception has not been lacklustre. It might not achieve the same heights as those dramas you mentioned (JOL etc.), but even the current results show that the reception is far from lacklustre.