Barbie Hsu, the beloved Taiwanese actress renowned for her role in the hit series "Meteor Garden," has passed away at the age of 48 due to complications from pneumonia following a bout of influenza. The news was confirmed by her sister, Dee Hsu, a well-known TV presenter, who expressed her deep sorrow and gratitude for their relationship in a heartfelt tribute.
Barbie Hsu, affectionately known to fans as Da S or Big S, gained widespread fame in the early 2000s when "Meteor Garden" captivated audiences across Asia. The series, which featured her as the female lead alongside the popular boyband F4, became a cultural phenomenon, significantly boosting her profile in the entertainment industry.
Hsu’s death has sent shockwaves through Taiwan and China, where she was a prominent figure. Her sister revealed that Barbie contracted the flu while visiting Japan with her family during the Lunar New Year celebrations. In her statement, Dee Hsu shared, "My dearest and most kindhearted sister Barbie Hsu died of influenza-induced pneumonia and unfortunately left us. I will forever be thankful for her and miss her."
The actress’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, particularly on Weibo, where tributes and condolences have flooded in from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Details surrounding the exact circumstances of her passing remain scarce, as her sister did not disclose specific information regarding where and when it occurred.
Barbie Hsu’s career began in music, where she formed a pop group called SOS with her sister. The duo later transitioned into television hosting, but it was "Meteor Garden" that truly launched her into stardom. Beyond this iconic role, Hsu starred in several other television dramas, including "Mars," "Corner With Love," and "Reign of Assassins," as well as films like "The Ghost Inside" and "Connected."
In her personal life, Hsu was married to Korean musician Koo Jun-yup, known as DJ Koo. Previously, she was married to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei for over a decade, but their relationship ended in a highly publicized divorce in 2021.
Aside from her acting career, Barbie Hsu was an advocate for animal rights, collaborating with organizations like PETA to raise awareness about animal welfare issues. Her commitment to these causes earned her respect and admiration beyond her entertainment achievements.
Hsu is survived by her husband and two children from her previous marriage, leaving behind a legacy of talent and compassion that touched many lives. As fans and colleagues mourn her loss, her contributions to the entertainment industry and her advocacy for animals will be remembered fondly.