Barbie Hsu, the renowned Taiwanese actress celebrated for her iconic role in the 2001 hit TV series Meteor Garden, sadly passed away at the age of 48 due to complications from pneumonia triggered by influenza. Hsu, affectionately known as "Big S" (or "Da S"), contracted the flu during her recent travels to Japan with her family for the Lunar New Year festivities.
The unexpected news of Hsu's death, confirmed by her younger sister Dee Hsu, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and her vast fanbase across Asia. "I am grateful for this lifetime of taking care of each other and being companions. I will forever be thankful for her and miss her!" Dee Hsu declared, reflecting the deep familial bond they shared.
Hsu's untimely demise has sparked widespread mourning, especially among fans who grew up watching her performances. The news quickly became the top trending topic on the popular Chinese social media platform Weibo, where countless users expressed their disbelief and sorrow. "It feels like someone you're so familiar with is suddenly gone," one user stated poignantly, capturing the collective grief felt by many.
Barbie Hsu first stepped onto the entertainment scene as part of the pop music duo S.O.S with her sister at just 17 years old. They transitioned to television hosting, quickly becoming beloved figures known for their lively personalities and humor. But it was her role as the determined Dong Shancai, the lead character in Meteor Garden, which catapulted her to stardom. The series not only revolutionized Taiwanese television drama but also became immensely popular throughout East Asia.
The characters’ experiences and emotive storytelling struck a chord with audiences from the Philippines to Indonesia, where the series was dubbed and broadcast with great success. Hsu's portrayal of Shancai introduced her to millions, making her remain eternally embedded as part of their youth culture. F4, the boy band formed by her male co-stars, emerged as one of the most popular Mandopop groups of the 2000s, thanks to the show's success.
After her rise to fame, Barbie Hsu continued to flourish, featuring prominently in numerous dramas and films, including Corner With Love and Summer's Desire. Although she took a break from traditional acting roles around 2012, she maintained her presence on reality television and continued to engage her fans through various media. Hsu's departure from mainstream acting did not diminish her popularity or the affection her audience held for her.
Hsu's personal life had its trials, including her high-profile marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, which ended acrimoniously after ten years. Their divorce, marked by public disputes and social media exchanges, drew significant media attention. Following this, she found love again with South Korean musician Koo Jun-yup, known as "DJ Koo." Her life, characterized by its highs and lows, was often under the media spotlight.
Barbie Hsu was also recognized for her commitment to animal rights and frequently collaborated with organizations such as PETA. Jason Baker, senior vp of PETA, hailed her as "one of the first and biggest stars to lend her support to PETA," acknowledging her efforts to advocate against the fur trade and for animal welfare.
Among the tributes pouring forth after her passing, fellow F4 member Ken Chu shared his grief on social media, writing, "What a bolt from the blue" alongside nostalgic memories captured from their time together. Aya Liu, long-time friend of the Hsu sisters, expressed her disbelief at their recent meeting, stating, "I didn't think it would be our last gathering. Rest in peace, the most beautiful queen."
The legacy of Barbie Hsu extends beyond her on-screen performances; it resonates deeply within cultures throughout Asia where she inspired generations of fans. The impact of Meteor Garden remains potent even after more than two decades, having inspired various adaptations around the region, and continues to spark conversations about youth, love, and drama.
With her sudden passing, the world has lost not only a talented actress but also a beloved figure whose influence will echo through the years. Hsu is survived by her husband, DJ Koo, and two children from her previous marriage. The tributes expressed on social media reflect the many lives she touched, reminding us all of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring power of her artistic contributions.