Get ready for a dramatic comeback! The highly anticipated sequel to the groundbreaking series 'Nothing But Thirty' is officially in the works, and it’s a cross-border collaboration that’s set to shake up the entertainment world. Singapore’s Mediacorp has joined forces with China’s Linmon Media to bring us Only Thirty-Five, a follow-up that promises to delve deeper into the lives of women navigating life’s twists and turns. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just a sequel—it’s a cultural bridge, blending creative talents from both nations to craft a story that’s both authentic and universally relatable.
The partnership was sealed at the prestigious Asia TV Forum and Market, with a nod of approval from Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority. This project builds on a memorandum of understanding signed last year, proving that when two powerhouses come together, the result is nothing short of extraordinary. And this is the part most people miss: the sequel isn’t just about continuing a story—it’s about exploring themes of trust, renewal, and second chances, all while showcasing the resilience of its characters.
In Only Thirty-Five, we follow Gu Jia as she embarks on a fresh start after turning 35. Teaming up with Jiang Lili, a business leader bouncing back from personal challenges, the duo launches a domestic services company. Their journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the bonds that help us rebuild. Production is set to kick off in 2026, with filming locations spanning both China and Singapore, and a cast that highlights the best talents from both countries.
Now, let’s talk numbers for a moment. The original series, Nothing But Thirty, wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural phenomenon. With over 5.5 billion views on Tencent Video and a 21-day reign at the platform’s top spot, it’s no wonder the show has inspired adaptations in Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea. But here’s the controversial part: can the sequel live up to the hype? Or will it carve out its own unique legacy? That’s a question fans and critics alike are eager to answer.
Mediacorp’s chief content officer, Virginia Lim, is confident in the collaboration. She notes, ‘Partnering with Linmon Media brings together complementary creative strengths to shape a sequel that remains authentic and relevant.’ Meanwhile, Linmon Media’s founder, Su Xiao, highlights Singapore’s strategic importance, calling it a ‘valued market’ due to its regional and international influence. But it’s not just about market expansion—Su emphasizes a reciprocal creative approach, where China’s industry standards enhance global capabilities while drawing inspiration from international remakes.
And if you thought Only Thirty-Five was the only project on Linmon’s radar, think again. At the ATF showcase, the company unveiled a diverse 2026 slate that includes fantasy, romance, medical drama, and large-scale costume storytelling. Titles like Infinite 10 Days, Huo Wang, and Light Through the Eternal Storm promise to captivate audiences across genres. The event even featured a captivating on-stage conversation with Bao Shang’en and Wang Hongyi, the stars of In the Moonlight, who shared insights into their roles.
So, here’s the big question: Will Only Thirty-Five redefine the sequel game, or will it face the challenge of living up to its predecessor’s monumental success? And what does this cross-border collaboration mean for the future of global storytelling? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
