New Gods: Nezha Reborn - Characters & Cast

Initially motivated by a desire for a satisfying life and protecting his family, his motivation shifts to revenge after his family is targeted by the De Clan. Ultimately, his core motivation becomes the protection of his city, Donghai, and its people from the tyranny of the Dragon King.

Li Yunxiang starts as a cocky, hot-headed biker and smuggler, primarily concerned with his own life and immediate circle. Upon discovering he is the reincarnation of Nezha, he is initially resentful and rejects this powerful, chaotic identity. Through the loss of loved ones and training with the Monkey King, he begins to understand the responsibility that comes with his power. He gradually evolves from fighting for personal revenge to fighting for his community, culminating in him fully embracing his dual identity as both Li Yunxiang and Nezha to save the city.

His primary motivation is to guide and test Nezha's reincarnation. Having seen the world fall into chaos and gods become warring factions, he seeks to find a hero capable of fixing things. He hopes Yunxiang can become this hero and seems interested in locating other celestial weapons, including his own staff.

Initially presenting himself as a cynical and mysterious, six-eared macaque, his true identity is the legendary Monkey King, Sun Wukong. He appears world-weary and reluctant to get involved in another celestial conflict. He takes on the role of a mentor to Yunxiang, albeit a cryptic and challenging one. By the end, he reveals his true self and his vested interest in seeing a new generation of gods like Nezha rise to restore balance, indicating a renewed sense of purpose.

His motivations are twofold: Revenge against Nezha for defeating him and killing his son in a past life, and Power through the control of Donghai City's resources and the eventual creation of a powerful Dragon Pearl.

Ao Guang is presented as the ruthless patriarch of the De Clan and the Dragon King, an ancient enemy of Nezha. His character does not have a significant arc; he remains consistently villainous. His actions are driven by a 3,000-year-old grudge and a lust for power. He controls the city's water to maintain his dominance and is singularly focused on destroying Nezha's reincarnation to avenge his son, Ao Bing, and prevent any challenge to his authority.

Her motivation is to help people and save lives, whether through medicine or by encouraging Yunxiang to use his powers for good. She believes in giving people more time with their loved ones and stands as a moral compass for Yunxiang.

Dr. Su is a compassionate and skilled doctor who works to help the citizens of Donghai. She is also a skilled racer who forms a connection with Yunxiang. Initially a supporting character and potential love interest, she becomes more deeply involved in the central conflict when she is taken hostage by Ao Guang. Her arc is about maintaining her resolve to heal and help in the face of overwhelming destruction, representing the resilient spirit of the city's people.