Barbie Hsu, the beloved Taiwanese singer and actress known affectionately as "Big S" (大S), passed away on February 2, 2023, during what was supposed to be a joyful family vacation in Japan over the Chinese New Year festivities. The shocking news, which was confirmed by her family, revealed she succumbed to pneumonia after being infected with influenza, raising concerns about the flu outbreak currently affecting the country.
According to local reports, including coverage from TVBS, Hsu fell ill during her stay at Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. Despite efforts to seek medical care, she was hospitalized and surrounded by her loved ones when she unfortunately took her last breath. The news of her passing has sent ripples of mourning throughout the entertainment industry and among her fans.
At just 48 years old, Hsu's career flourished as she first gained fame alongside her sister, Xiao S (徐熙娣), as part of the idol duo S.O.S., known for hits like "十分鐘的戀愛" (Tentative Translation: "Ten Minutes of Love"). They made waves as teenagers, quickly becoming household names across Taiwan and later throughout Greater China. Barbie's charm and candid personality made her not just an entertainer but also a relatable figure to many.
Hsu's acting career took off with her iconic role as the lead character, Tsukushi, in the Taiwanese adaptation of the popular manga "Hana Yori Dango", titled "Meteor Garden" (流星花園), which premiered in 2001. This show elevated her status to stardom, and she appeared in numerous other dramas such as "Mars" (戰神), "Finding True Love" (ホントの恋の見つけかた), and the film "Silk" (シルク), earning her recognition both as a singer and actress.
The entertainment community responded with deep sadness following the announcement of Hsu's death. Fellow actress Lin Chi-ling expressed her condolences by stating, "May she rest peacefully. I hope her family can endure this tough time. We will forever cherish her greatness and compassion.”
Another close friend, Show Lo, who co-starred with Hsu, shared his sorrow with fans through Instagram, posting a simple yet poignant tribute: the words "一路好走" (Translation: "Rest Easy") alongside symbolic praying emojis.
Hsu's personal life was woven with ups and downs, including her high-profile marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, with whom she had two children. Their wedding took place in 2010, but the couple divorced in 2021. Hsu's love life took another twist when she hinted at rekindled romance with South Korean musician Gu Jun-hee (ク・ジュンヨプ), surprising fans when they announced their marriage earlier this year after more than two decades apart.
Perhaps the most touching tribute came from Hsu's sister, Xiao S, who shared her grief via her manager, stating, "I am grateful to have been her sister in this life. We supported and cared for each other. I will always cherish and miss her. May she rest peacefully. I love her forever." This heartfelt message highlighted the close bond they shared, transcending the world of fame to reach the intimacy of familial love.
Barbie Hsu not only carved her place as one of the leading figures of Taiwanese entertainment but also inspired many both personally and professionally. Her ability to connect through her music, acting, and candid discussions about life made her beloved among fans across the Chinese-speaking world. While her sudden departure leaves a void, her legacy will remain alive through the memories and the artistic contributions she made throughout her career.
Hsu's life, though cut short, serves as a reminder of the fragility of health and the unexpected turns life can take. Her passing has galvanized conversations about vigilance toward health, particularly during flu season, and the importance of cherishing loved ones. Barbie Hsu will be sorely missed, and her contributions to entertainment will not be forgotten.