Cast of Raise the Red Lantern

Gong Li portrays Song Lian, the young and beautiful college student who becomes the fourth mistress of the wealthy Chen family.

Ma Jingwu plays Chen Zuoqian, the powerful and manipulative master of the Chen family who controls the lives of his mistresses.

He Saifei takes on the role of Mei Shan, the third mistress who initially appears kind and sympathetic towards Song Lian.

Cao Cuifen portrays Zhuo Yun, the second mistress who is cunning and competitive in her relationships with the other mistresses.

Kong Lin plays Yan'er, the young maid who is loyal to Song Lian but also struggles to navigate the complex dynamics within the household.

Shuyuan Jin embodies the character of Yu Ru, the first mistress who initially appears welcoming towards Song Lian but later reveals her true nature.

Chu Xiao portrays Fei Pu, a maid within the Chen household who witnesses the power struggles and tragedies that unfold among the mistresses.

Ding Weimin plays Mother Song, the strict and traditional mother of the Chen family who upholds the family's traditions and values.

Cao Zengyin takes on the role of the Old Servant, a loyal and experienced servant who witnesses the unfolding drama within the Chen household.

Cui Zhi-Gang portrays Dr. Gao, a doctor who interacts with the mistresses and provides a different perspective on their lives.

Espérance Pham Thai Lan has an uncredited role as the Concubine, whose presence adds another layer of tension and competition among the mistresses.

Zhou Qi plays Chen Baishun, a character whose actions have far-reaching consequences on the lives of the mistresses and the Chen family.