The late model soldier Lei Feng (left) and actor Tian Liang

The glory of his diving days hasn't extended to his acting career. But Tian Liang is striving to make that happen, even if he has to take a risk.

The Olympic champion-turned actor recently replaced Yu Shaoqun ("Forever Enthralled") as the candidate for the title role in "Lei Feng", an upcoming TV biopic of the late national hero.

Lei Feng, a selfless and devoted young soldier, was widely regarded as a symbol of altruism in China. Chairman Mao Zedong once launched a campaign calling on people to learn from him.

Impersonating Lei Feng would be challenging for any actor, critics say. Lei Feng's image is so ingrained that audiences won't easily accept any nuances in the actor's portrait.

However, Tian Liang, who has little background in acting, is passionate about "doing it well," said producer Cheng Lidong. Cheng says Tian Liang has visited the prestigious Central Academy of Drama and asked professors there to train him.

"Lei Feng" will start shooting next week.

Tian Liang, 29, retired from sports in 2007. He has since appeared in a few TV productions, including last year's "Niulang Zhinv" ("The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl"), in which he plays the legendary Niulang. But his performance failed to win praise. "His sunny image didn't help this household character appear more impressive," one critic said.

(CRI April 3, 2009)