Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu, best known for her role as Shan Cai in the 2001 hit drama “Meteor Garden,” has passed away at the age of 48. Her family confirmed on Monday, February 3, that she died due to influenza-related pneumonia, leaving fans and loved ones heartbroken.
Rumors of her passing first surfaced online on Sunday, February 2. The speculation intensified when her ex-husband, Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, reportedly changed his social media profile picture to black. The tragic news was later confirmed by Barbie’s younger sister, entertainer Dee Hsu.
“Thank you all for your concern! 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,” Dee said in a statement to Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS News.
Her voice trembled with emotion as she continued, “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.”
Following the heartbreaking news, friends, colleagues, and organizations expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to the beloved actress.
PETA Asia, an organization Barbie passionately supported, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook. “She was one of the first and biggest stars to stand with us against the cruel fur industry. She used her platform to educate millions and encouraged brands to stop selling fur.
Barbie also spoke up for animals in circuses, using her voice to make a difference. Her compassion and dedication will never be forgotten.”
Her “Meteor Garden” co-star Jerry Yan, who played Dao Ming Si, was deeply saddened. He took to Weibo to share his grief and admiration for Barbie. “Thank you for the chance to meet you.
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, born Hsi-yuan Hsu on October 6, 1976, began her entertainment career in 1994 alongside her sister Dee as part of the pop duo SOS, later rebranded as ASOS.
The sisters soon became popular television hosts, working on shows such as “Guess,” “100% Entertainment,” and “Gourmet Secrets of the Stars.” However, it was her transition into acting that made her a household name.
Her breakthrough role as Shan Cai in “Meteor Garden” catapulted her to stardom, making her an icon across Asia. The show, based on the Japanese manga “Boys Over Flowers,” gained immense popularity and led to Barbie starring in other hit dramas such as “Mars,” “Corner With Love,” and “Summer’s Desire.”
Barbie also proved her versatility on the big screen. She starred in films like “Connected” in 2008 and “Croczilla” in 2012, showcasing her acting skills beyond television.
In her personal life, Barbie experienced both love and heartbreak. She married businessman Wang Xiaofei on November 16, 2010, and together they had two children. However, after 11 years of marriage, the couple divorced on November 22, 2021.
In a surprising turn of events, she found love again with South Korean singer Koo Jun Yeob. The two rekindled their past romance and got married on March 28, 2022. They remained together until her passing.
Barbie Hsu’s death is a profound loss to the entertainment industry, but her legacy will continue to shine through her work, her advocacy, and the love she shared with those around her.
She will always be remembered as a talented actress, a kindhearted advocate, and a cherished sister, friend, and mother.
