Chinese actor You Benchang, 92, pledges his oath to join the Communist Party of China (CPC) on June 30, 2025. Photo: Screenshot from the people.cn

You Benchang, a 92-year-old first-class actor with the National Theatre of China, pledged his oath to officially join the Communist Party of China (CPC) on Monday, according to a report from the people.cn.

In a video released on the official account of people.cn, You can be seen reciting the Party admission oath with a clear voice filled with emotion: "I'm thankful that the CPC has accepted me, and I feel truly honored for my whole life. At last, I have reached this day — becoming a probationary member of the CPC. It is such an honor, and it has not come easily."

He added that he wants to engrave every word of the oath in his mind, "because this is a promise I will uphold for the rest of my life."

Reflecting on what inspired him to join the Party at such an advanced age, You recalled witnessing Shanghai's liberation on May 27, 1949, when he was 16 years old. He saw the city undergo a dramatic transformation overnight, and the seeds of faith were then quietly planted in his heart.

"For decades, I always wanted to join the Party," he said. "But I felt I hadn't done enough. So I demanded more of myself and stayed ready to answer the Party's call."

The strength and sincerity of his commitment are reflected in his 21-page handwritten application to join the CPC. At the ceremony, he gently touched the gleaming Party emblem pinned to his chest and said with deep emotion, "Joining the Party is not the 'final destination' of my life, but a new beginning. I will continue to shine my light and warmth, using art to inspire hearts, staying true to my mission, and living up to the people's expectations."

Born in September 1933, You's life has been one of remarkable perseverance and passion. From playing nameless extras to becoming a beloved leading actor, and even now remaining active on screen in his 90s, You's career embodies an unyielding dedication to his craft, the Beijing News reported.

He began acting in stage plays at 18, but it was not until he was 52 that he landed his first leading role portraying Ji Gong, the legendary "Mad Ji." Over the decades, You endured countless moments when the road ahead seemed hopelessly long, yet he chose to treasure every small role. In his career, he has portrayed 79 supporting characters, each one a testament to his respect for the art of acting.

You suffered a severe illness due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease during this year's Spring Festival, according to his daughter's disclosure in an interview in May.

At the 40th anniversary reunion event for Ji Gong in June, You said that he almost died once at the beginning of the year, but finally made it through. "After a period of recovery, the very first thing I did was attend this Ji Gong reunion. I'm so happy, so blessed," You said.

From his early silent sketch Shower, to the iconic mythological series Ji Gong, and the 2023 period drama Blossoms Shanghai, You's body of work showcases his extraordinary versatility and his profound insight into life and humanity. His enduring spirit continues to inspire generations, and he remains an artist who still deservingly stands under the spotlight, staying true to his faith and true to the people.

Global Times