Barbie Hsu, who rose to stardom for playing Shan Cai in the 2001 hit series “Meteor Garden,” has died. Her family has shared more details about her sudden death.
Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu has died at the age of 48 due to influenza-related pneumonia, her family confirmed Monday, February 3.
Barbie Hsu attends a brand event in Xi’an, China, on June 20, 2004 | Source: Getty Images
Rumors of her death first spread online on Sunday, February 2, and grew stronger after her ex-husband, Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, reportedly changed his social media profile picture to black. The news was later confirmed by Barbie’s younger sister, entertainer Dee Hsu.
Wang Xiaofei and Barbie Hsu attend a Sodagreen concert at MasterCard Center in Beijing, November 11, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
“Thank you all for your concern! During the New Year holiday, our whole family travelled 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.
Barbie Hsu attends a skincare product promotion event in Taipei, Taiwan, on August 4, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
Dee 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 news of Barbie’s passing, colleagues, and organizations expressed their sadness and paid tribute to the actress.
On Facebook, PETA Asia shared a heartfelt message, honoring Barbie’s dedication to animal rights. The organization described her as one of the “first and biggest stars” to support their cause, using her platform to educate millions about the cruelty of the fur industry.
She also actively urged brands to stop selling fur and used her artistic skills to advocate for animals in circuses.
Her “Meteor Garden” co-star Jerry Yan was also heartbroken. Taking to Weibo, he shared a touching message for his former on-screen partner. “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.”
Born Hsi-yuan Hsu on October 6, 1976, Barbie began her entertainment career in 1994 alongside her sister Dee as part of the pop duo SOS, later rebranded as ASOS. The two later hosted popular shows such as “Guess,” “100% Entertainment,” and “Gourmet Secrets of the Stars” before she transitioned into acting.
Barbie rose to fame in 2001 with her role as Shan Cai in the hit drama “Meteor Garden.” She later starred in several notable dramas, including “Mars,” “Corner With Love,” and “Summer’s Desire.”
Beyond television, she also appeared in films such as “Connected” in 2008 and “Croczilla” in 2012, further showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Barbie was married twice. She wed Xiaofei on November 16, 2010, and the couple had two children before divorcing on November 22, 2021. On March 28, 2022, she married South Korean singer Koo Jun Yeob and remained together until her passing.
Barbie’s passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but her legacy as an actress, advocate, and beloved public figure will endure.
