2017–present: Acclaim and transition to mainstream popularity
In 2017, Li starred in the television adaptation of the classic novel White Deer Plain. Her performance as Tian Xiao'e was a "pitch-perfect illustration of a rural woman's miserable life" according to critics, and stood in sharp contrast to her previous performances as youthful and innocent characters. Li was nominated for the Best Supporting Actress award at the Magnolia Awards for her performance. The same year, Li starred in the historical action drama Princess Agents, playing a princess of a befallen kingdom. The drama was a major success and led to increased popularity of Li. That year, Li entered Forbes China Celebrity 100 list for the first time, ranking 100th.
In 2018, Li was nominated at the Hundred Flowers Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Yang Kaihui in the patriotic film The Founding of an Army. The same year, she played the role of Fragrant Concubine in the palace drama Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace. Forbes China listed Li under their 30 Under 30 Asia 2017 list which consisted of 30 influential people under 30 years old who have had a substantial effect in their fields.
In 2019, Li played the female lead Lu Xueqi in the film adaptation of the xianxia novel Zhu Xian, titled Jade Dynasty. She then co-starred in the aviation disaster film The Captain as a flight attendant, and received the Best Supporting Actress award at the Gold Crane Awards held by the Tokyo International Film Festival. The same year, she starred in the historical political drama Joy of Life, and gained attention for her role as the drumstick lady.
In 2020, Li appeared in CCTV New Year's Gala for the first time, performing the song item "Hello 2020". The same year, she starred in the historical drama The Song of Glory as the daughter of a military family. She also starred in the comedy film Warm Hug.
She ranked 72nd on Forbes China Celebrity 100 list in 2020.
