Barbie Hsu, the beloved actress who won hearts as Shan Cai in the hit 2001 drama “Meteor Garden,” has passed away. Her family has shared more details about her sudden and heartbreaking death.
Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu died at the age of 48 due to complications from flu-related pneumonia, her family confirmed on Monday, February 3.
Rumors of her passing started circulating online on Sunday, February 2. The speculation grew stronger when her ex-husband, Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, changed his social media profile picture to black, a gesture often used as a sign of mourning.
Not long after, Barbie’s younger sister, entertainer Dee Hsu, confirmed the tragic news.
“Thank you all for your concern!” Dee said in a statement to Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS News. “During the New Year holiday, our whole family traveled to Japan. My dearest and kindest sister, Xiyuan, unfortunately passed away due to flu-related pneumonia.”
Struggling to find the words, Dee expressed her deep sorrow. “I am grateful to have been her sister in this lifetime, to have cared for each other and accompanied each other. I will always be thankful for her and miss her forever. Shan~ Rest in peace! Love you always—Together, remember forever.”
The entertainment industry was shaken by the news, and tributes poured in from colleagues and organizations who admired Barbie’s talent, kindness, and dedication to important causes.
PETA Asia, an organization close to Barbie’s heart, honored her commitment to animal rights. In a heartfelt message on Facebook, they wrote, “Barbie was one of the first and biggest stars to stand up against animal cruelty.
She used her influence to educate millions about the horrors of the fur industry.” They also praised her efforts in persuading brands to stop selling fur and using her artistic voice to advocate for animals in circuses.
Her “Meteor Garden” co-star Jerry Yan was devastated. He took to Weibo to share his grief and his fond memories of their time together. “Thank you for the chance to meet you,” he wrote. “In your carefree, childlike years, you often said, ‘Live each day as if it were the last, and enjoy it to the fullest.’
This time, may you take your time and walk slowly. From now on, in another world, may there be no worries—only peace and tranquility.”
Barbie Hsu was born as Hsi-yuan Hsu on October 6, 1976. She stepped into the entertainment world in 1994 alongside her sister Dee, forming the pop duo SOS, which later rebranded as ASOS.
The duo also became well-known television hosts, working on popular shows like “Guess,” “100% Entertainment,” and “Gourmet Secrets of the Stars.”
However, it was her role as Shan Cai in “Meteor Garden” that made her a household name. The drama became a massive success across Asia, and Barbie’s portrayal of the strong-willed but kindhearted protagonist resonated with fans worldwide.
She went on to star in other well-loved dramas, including “Mars,” “Corner With Love,” and “Summer’s Desire.”
Her talent wasn’t limited to television. She also took on roles in films such as “Connected” in 2008 and “Croczilla” in 2012, proving her versatility as an actress.
In her personal life, Barbie was married twice. She wed Wang Xiaofei on November 16, 2010, and they had two children together before their divorce on November 22, 2021. A few months later, on March 28, 2022, she married South Korean singer Koo Jun Yeob, and they remained together until her passing.
Her death has left a deep void in the entertainment industry and in the hearts of those who knew her. But while she is no longer here, her legacy will live on through her incredible body of work, her advocacy, and the love she shared with the world.
Barbie Hsu will always be remembered as an actress, an advocate, a sister, a wife, a mother, and a true star.
