Taiwanese actress Hsuan-chih Sung, widely known as Big S, has passed away at the age of 48 after contracting flu, which led to pneumonia during her family trip to Japan for the Lunar New Year. The shocking news has left her fans and colleagues heartbroken, as they come to terms with the untimely loss of one of Taiwan's most beloved stars.
Her departure on February 3, 2022, has brought forth waves of condolences from the entertainment industry, particularly from her co-stars who worked alongside her on widely acclaimed projects. Big S rose to fame through her performance as Shancai, the strong-willed heroine of the television series 'Meteor Garden,' which aired from 2001 and sparked immense popularity across Asia.
Yán Chéngxù, who played the male lead Dao Ming Si opposite her, shared his sorrow through his agency, stating, "Thank you for meeting you. During your carefree child-like years, you often said to treat each day as if it’s the last and to live life to the fullest. May this time, you take it slow, and from now on, be free of troubles, enjoying peace of years gone by.” His heartfelt words reflect the admiration and respect their characters garnered and how they impacted the lives of many viewers.
Director Dong Zhicheng, who portrayed Big S's father in 'Meteor Garden,' expressed his grief during promotional events, noting his disbelief at the news. "I am really heartbroken. She was such a talented and smart actress," he revealed, clutching his phone, which still had messages from her. "We caught up just before the new year, and her energy and kindness were evident as she wished me happiness and success for the new year." The emotional weight of his words embodies the closeness the cast shared both on and off-screen.
Co-star Barbie Hsu, who played the role of Shancai's mother, also took to social media to lament the loss. "Nothing is harder to accept than losing such a genuine and good soul. It is truly too painful," she said, sharing cherished moments captured on set and reminiscing about the bonding experiences they shared over the years. Her post emphasized the struggles of actors who often bear their burdens privately, behind the glitz and glamour.
Reactions continued to pour in from across the industry, with many who had the privilege to know her expressing their sorrow. One actress, who played Xiao You beside Big S, referenced the impact Big S had on her life and career, thanking her for the kindness she had shown over the years. She called Big S her "noble benefactor, who was generous and thoughtful both professionally and personally".
Big S's career highlights are numerous; she starred not only in 'Meteor Garden,' which was pivotal for introducing the idol drama genre to audiences, but also appeared in various other productions over the years, cementing her status as one of the leading figures of Taiwanese television. From her radiant performances to her appearances on variety shows, she captivated audiences and became recognized as one of the stars shaping the entertainment scene.
The news of her passing was met with disbelief from her fans who took to social media to express their grief and share memories of her performances, reflecting on how her roles had deeply influenced their lives. Many recalled her as the strong female lead who embodied resilience and charm, making Shancai more than just a character but an icon for many youths.
Big S’s unexpected death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and her legacy is expected to endure through the lives she influenced and the art she created. The entertainment community is now rallying to honor her memory and celebrate her life by keeping her spirit alive through the stories and performances she shared.
She leaves behind not only her talents and contributions but also the enduring impact she made on the hearts of her audience and colleagues. Fans have begun organizing memorials and spreading messages of love and remembrance online, ensuring Big S will not be forgotten.