Barbie Hsu, Iconic Taiwanese Actress, Dies at 48 Due to Pneumonia Complications

INDONESIAUPDATES.COM, News En – Barbie Hsu, beloved Taiwanese actress best known for her role in the hit TV drama Meteor Garden, has tragically passed away at the age of 48. Hsu, also known as “Da S” (Big S), died from pneumonia caused by flu complications after contracting the virus during a family trip to Japan for the Lunar New Year celebrations. Her sister, Dee Hsu, a popular TV host, confirmed the heartbreaking news and expressed her grief in a statement: “I am grateful that in this lifetime I was able to be her sister, taking care of each other and being companions. I will forever be thankful for her and miss her!”

The news of Hsu’s sudden death has sent shockwaves across Taiwan and China, where she has been a cherished figure in the entertainment industry for decades. Her passing quickly trended on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with many fans expressing their sorrow. “It feels like someone you’re so familiar with is suddenly gone,” one user commented. “Her two children, poor kids. May she rest in peace.”

Hsu’s career began in her teenage years as part of the pop duo S.O.S. with her sister Dee. The pair transitioned into TV hosting, gaining popularity with young audiences. However, it was her role in Meteor Garden (2001) that brought her international fame. Portraying the lead female character in the iconic romance drama, she became a household name across Asia, alongside the boyband F4.

Following Meteor Garden, Hsu continued to enjoy success in television dramas, films, and talk shows, solidifying her status as one of Taiwan’s top stars. In recent years, her personal life, particularly her highly publicized divorce from Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei and her later marriage to Korean musician Koo Jun-yup, also garnered media attention.

Aside from her acting career, Hsu was an advocate for animal rights, working closely with organizations like PETA. She was one of the first major stars to publicly support animal rights and campaigns against fur sales. “Barbie was one of the first and biggest stars to lend her support to PETA,” said Jason Baker, PETA’s senior vice president. “She spoke up countless times for animals, directly urging brands to stop selling fur.”

Hsu leaves behind her husband Koo Jun-yup and two children from her previous marriage to Wang Xiaofei. Fans and colleagues alike will remember her for her contributions to entertainment and her passionate advocacy for animal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Barbie Hsu’s Passing

What happened to Barbie Hsu?
Barbie Hsu, the Taiwanese actress best known for her role in Meteor Garden, passed away at the age of 48 due to pneumonia complications caused by the flu. She contracted the flu while visiting Japan with her family during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
How did her sister Dee Hsu react to Barbie’s passing?
Dee Hsu, Barbie’s sister and a popular TV host, shared her grief in a statement, expressing gratitude for their close relationship. She said, “I am grateful that in this lifetime I was able to be her sister, taking care of each other and being companions. I will forever be thankful for her and miss her!”
When and where did Barbie Hsu pass away?
While the exact time and place of her passing were not disclosed, it was confirmed that Barbie died in early February 2025 after contracting the flu during her family’s trip to Japan for the Lunar New Year celebrations.
What was Barbie Hsu famous for?
Barbie Hsu rose to fame for her role in the 2001 Taiwanese drama Meteor Garden, where she played the lead female role opposite the boyband F4. The drama became a cultural phenomenon across Asia, making her a household name.
What other career achievements did Barbie Hsu have?
Besides her acting career, Barbie Hsu was also known for her work as a TV host and in films. She was part of the pop duo S.O.S. with her sister Dee, and the pair transitioned to hosting TV shows, which were widely popular among young audiences.
Was Barbie Hsu involved in any other causes?
Yes, Barbie Hsu was an outspoken advocate for animal rights. She worked closely with organizations like PETA, urging brands to stop selling fur and speaking out on behalf of animals. She was one of the first major stars to lend her support to such causes.
Who survives Barbie Hsu?
Barbie Hsu is survived by her husband, Koo Jun-yup, a Korean musician (DJ Koo), and her two children from her previous marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei.
How did the public react to Barbie Hsu’s death?
The news of Barbie Hsu’s death shocked fans across Taiwan, China, and beyond. On Chinese social media platform Weibo, fans expressed their sorrow, with many reflecting on the impact she had on their lives and the entertainment industry.
What is Barbie Hsu’s legacy?
Barbie Hsu’s legacy will be remembered for her iconic role in Meteor Garden, her contributions to the entertainment industry, and her advocacy for animal rights. She will remain an influential figure in Taiwanese and Asian pop culture.
Did Barbie Hsu have any significant personal challenges?
Yes, Barbie Hsu’s personal life drew considerable media attention, particularly her highly publicized divorce from Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, and her subsequent marriage to Korean musician Koo Jun-yup. Despite these challenges, she remained a beloved figure in the entertainment world.