The world of entertainment mourns the loss of one of Taiwan’s most cherished actresses, Barbie Hsu. Known for her captivating presence on screen, she gained immense fame through her role as Shan Cai in the iconic TV series Meteor Garden. On February 4, 2025, reports confirmed that she had passed away at the age of 48 due to pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades.
Career Highlights
Rise to Fame with Meteor Garden
Barbie Hsu, widely recognized by her stage name “Big S,” became a household name in Asia when she starred in Meteor Garden (2001-2002). The series was a modern adaptation of Boys Over Flowers, and its overwhelming success catapulted her into stardom.
Expanding Her Acting Career
Following her breakout role, she went on to star in numerous Taiwanese dramas and films, including Silk (2006) and Connected (2008). She was known for her versatility in both romantic and action-packed roles.
International Recognition
Thanks to the widespread distribution of Meteor Garden, Hsu became a familiar face across the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia. She also made it to the Forbes China Celebrity 100 list in 2010, proving her influence extended beyond Taiwan.
Her Passing and Reactions
Rumors of Barbie Hsu’s death started surfacing online on February 2, 2025. Speculation intensified when her ex-husband, Wang Xiaofei, changed his social media profile picture to black.
Her sister, Dee Hsu, later confirmed the heartbreaking news: “My dearest and kindest sister, Xiyuan, unfortunately passed away due to flu-related pneumonia while we were traveling in Japan.”
Tributes poured in from fans, friends, and fellow celebrities, all expressing their grief over the loss of such a beloved figure.
Personal Life
Family and Relationships
Hsu was married to South Korean singer DJ Koo and was set to celebrate their third anniversary in February 2025. She also had two children from her previous marriage with businessman Wang Xiaofei.
Health Struggles
She had long battled health issues, including epilepsy and heart conditions. Despite multiple hospitalizations, she remained dedicated to her family and career.
Legacy and Impact
Barbie Hsu’s contribution to the entertainment industry will not be forgotten. She remains a symbol of strength, talent, and inspiration for generations of fans.
“Meteor Garden raised an entire generation. Thank you, Barbie Hsu, for giving life to Shan Cai.” – A fan on social media.
