**Barbie Hsu: Taiwanese Actress Known for Meteor Garden Passes Away at 48 Due to Flu-Related Illness**
Barbie Hsu, the beloved Taiwanese actress famed for her role in the hit series Meteor Garden, has tragically passed away at the age of 48 from pneumonia that developed after contracting the flu. Her sister, Dee Hsu, a television presenter, confirmed the news and expressed her heartfelt tribute, stating she would “forever be thankful for her and miss her.”
Hsu, affectionately known to fans as Da S (Big S), gained widespread recognition in the early 2000s with the romantic drama Meteor Garden, which captivated audiences across Asia. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves throughout Taiwan and China, where it quickly became a trending topic on social media platform Weibo.
According to Dee Hsu, Barbie contracted the flu while vacationing in Japan with her family during the Lunar New Year. In a statement, she shared, “My dearest and most kindhearted sister Barbie Hsu died of influenza-induced pneumonia and unfortunately left us. 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!” Specific details regarding the time and location of her passing were not disclosed.
Barbie Hsu initially entered the entertainment industry through music, forming the pop group SOS with her sister during their teenage years before transitioning to television hosting. Her breakout role in Meteor Garden in 2001 made her a household name, where she starred alongside the boyband F4. Hsu’s impressive career also included roles in series such as Mars, Corner With Love, and Reign of Assassins, as well as films like The Ghost Inside and Connected.
In her personal life, Hsu was married to Korean musician Koo Jun-yup, also known as DJ Koo. She was previously married to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei for over a decade, but their relationship ended in a highly publicized divorce in 2021.
A passionate advocate for animal rights, Hsu collaborated with organizations like PETA, where she was recognized as one of the first major stars to support their cause. Jason Baker, PETA’s senior vice president, noted, “Barbie spoke up countless times for animals, directly urging brands to stop selling fur.”
Barbie Hsu is survived by her husband Koo and two children from her previous marriage to Wang.
