The Legend of the Condor Heroes

Two war orphaned boys in the Southern Song era grow up under starkly different guidance, shaping two paths that feel fated to diverge. Guo Jing learns loyalty and courage while clinging to a simple code, whereas Yang Kang is seduced by ambition and the promise of power. The series tracks their early years as the histories and factions around them pull them toward conflicting loyalties, harsh choices, and dangerous rivals. They cross swords with legendary martial artists, fall into schemes and betrayals, and confront a world where trust is scarce and every ally could conceal a threat. The drama fuses character tension with sweeping action to examine heroism, betrayal, and the costs of ambition.

Released in 2017 as a Chinese television drama, this adaptation draws on Jin Yong's classic novel The Legend of the Condor Heroes. It was created by Jeffrey Chiang along with Louis Cha, and its production emphasizes visuals and martial arts.

From its 2017 release, the show sits within Jin Yong's enduring Condor Heroes canon and features a notable ensemble led by Yang Xuwen, Li Yitong, Chen Xingxu, Meng Ziyi, and Zhao Lixin. It contributes to a modern wave of wuxia that blends classic hero archetypes with contemporary storytelling.

Its reception skews positive with an 8.11 out of 10 average from 18 votes, signaling solid interest among viewers. The series centers on loyalty versus ambition, personal honor versus family duty, and the high price of choosing a path that tests trust, with fast paced action and character drama.

No major awards or nominations for this adaptation are documented, reflecting its niche appeal within the wider Jin Yong fandom. Still the series stands out for its cast and its fidelity to the classic source material while delivering crisp fight sequences and a focus on personal and moral conflict.