China TV Drama Flying Apsaras Awards

(August 26, 2024)

Founded in 1980, the China TV Drama Flying Apsaras Awards is the earliest and longest-standing television award in China. The award began to be presented in 1981 and has been held annually since then. Its original name was "National Excellent TV Drama Award".

Hosted by the National Radio and Television Administration, the China TV Drama Flying Apsaras Awards is an inspection and evaluation of the ideological and artistic achievements of TV dramas in the previous year (or two years). The award is sponsored by the National Radio and Television Administration of China (formerly the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television) and organized by the China Television Art Committee. It is the only government award in the Chinese television drama industry and is considered one of the three major awards in Chinese television drama, alongside the Golden Eagle Award and the Shanghai Television Festival Magnolia Award.

Since 2005, it has been held once every two years.

The trophy's design, inspired by the Gandhanra, also known as "Flying Apsaras," draws upon ancient depictions of these celestial dancers etched within the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang.

The awards recognize outstanding achievements in television drama production, including excellence in writing, directing, acting, cinematography, editing, music, and other creative and technical aspects. Categories include Best Drama Series, Best Director, Best Screenwriter, Best Actor, Best Actress, and various other individual and technical awards.

The award ceremony is a prestigious event that attracts the attention of the entire Chinese television industry and the general public. It serves as a platform to showcase the best of Chinese television drama production and to recognize the talents and efforts of those who contribute to its success.

On September 11, 2024, the official list of finalists for the 34th China TV Drama Flying Apsaras Awards was announced.