Nicknamed the "Southern Hero", he is a righteous knight-errant with incredible martial arts skills, often helping Prefect Bao Zheng uphold justice.

Emperor Renzong of Song made him a 4th rank royal guard and gave him the title "Imperial Cat" for his swift movements.

At night, Zhan climbs over the wall and discovers that the monks have locked the pair up with plans to murder them for money.

Wang invites Zhan to the crag where he rules with blood brothers Ma Han, Zhang Long and Zhao.

At night, Xiang is spotted on the roof by Bao's vigilant entourage and when he tries to escape, Zhan shoots him down with an arrow.

Zhan Zhao learns that Bai Yutang is in the capital looking to challenge him, as a result of him getting the nickname "Royal Cat" from Emperor Renzong.

Bai Yutang steals three treasures and leaves a note specifically challenging Zhan Zhao to follow him to Hollow Island.

He was also the leader of Bao Zheng's guards, namely Wang Chao (王朝), Ma Han (馬漢), Zhang Long (張龍) and Zhao Hu (趙虎).

Zhan Zhao's signature garments of the red robe is especially memorable for many, and is often repeated by other television adaptations following this one.

It is also because of the red robe appearance that fans describe Kenny Ho's version of Zhan Zhao using these lines: 青锋昭律义 红袍展仁心, "the sword that serves justice, the red robe that displays a kind heart," thus incorporating Zhan Zhao's name (展昭), his personalities, and appearance.

Zhan Zhao, played by Hong Kong actor Felix Wong, once again wears his signature red robe.

This version of Zhan Zhao is similarly portrayed as the righteous and sympathetic paladin who aids Bao Zheng in his criminal cases.

A new adaptation of Shi Yukun's The Seven Heroes and Five Gallants produced by Huayi Brothers and Tianxing Yiyuan Entertainment (天星亿源影视), with actor Yan Yikuan playing Zhan Zhao / Shen Zhongyuan.

Zhan Zhao is again portrayed as a righteous and clever hero who takes on the persona of Shen Zhongyuan in order to spy on enemies of the people and to complete missions assigned to him by Bao Zheng.