Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, best known for her role in the popular 2001 TV series Meteor Garden, has passed away at the age of 48 due to pneumonia, as reported by local media.
A prominent figure in Mandarin-speaking countries, Hsu gained recognition in locations like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand after the localization of Meteor Garden.
"I can't believe it," expressed one comment on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, echoing the sentiments of millions of devastated fans paying tribute.
Hsu, who had a history of epilepsy and heart disease, reportedly fell ill during a trip to Japan and succumbed to pneumonia, triggered by influenza, as confirmed by her sister, Dee Hsu, to Taiwan's TVBS News on Monday.
Dee Hsu stated, "During the Lunar New Year, our family came to Japan for vacation. My dearest sister Barbie has unfortunately left us after getting pneumonia, triggered by influenza."
Hsu leaves behind her husband, South Korean singer DJ Koo, and two children from a previous marriage. Following a decade-long marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei, the couple went through a contentious divorce in 2021.
Beginning her career at 17 as part of a pop duo with her sister Dee, Hsu later gained fame as a TV host known for her energetic style and humor. However, it was her role in Meteor Garden that propelled her to stardom beyond the realms of Chinese entertainment.
In the drama, Hsu portrayed Shancai, a teenage girl from a middle-class background navigating a love triangle with wealthy heirs while attending an elite school. The success of the show led to the formation of the popular Mandopop group F4 by her male co-stars.
After Meteor Garden, Hsu continued to star in numerous TV shows and films, including well-received romantic dramas like Corner With Love and Summer's Desire.
Regarded as an icon of her era, Hsu's passing has triggered an outpouring of grief on social media, with fans across Asia honoring her legacy.