The first thing that may come to the minds of Gen Zs when I say “Meteor Garden” may be the the recent 2018 Chinese show starring Shen Yue and Dylan Wang.
However, for Generation Xs and Millennials, it’s more likely that you will be reminded of the iconic appearance of Barbie Hsu in the 2001 Taiwanese drama, which was based on the same story.
Unfortunately, Barbie Hsu has passed away at the age of 48.
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On 2 February 2025, a post was anonymously uploaded on a Japan travel Facebook page, claiming that a top Taiwanese actress had died from an illness during her vacation in Japan.
The post even stated that the actress was married to a foreigner, had kids, is 48, and was from the “Meteor Garden generation”. With these details, netizens quickly narrowed the actress down to Barbie Hsu.
Just today, Barbie’s younger sister, Dee Hsu, confirmed these speculations.
“Thank you for your concern! During the New Year, our family travelled to Japan. My dearest and kind sister Barbie unfortunately left us due to influenza and pneumonia. I am grateful to be her sister in this life, to take care of each other and accompany each other. I will always be grateful to her and miss her!” Dee told TVBS News through her manager this morning.
Barbie Hsu had a medical history of epilepsy and heart disease.
Barbie debuted as a singer, together with her sister, Dee, as a pop duo S.O.S. in 1994. Soon after, they altered their career trajectory and delved deeper into hosting instead of singing, co-hosting a wide range of variety shows and news programmes.
Barbie’s most prominent acting role was likely her leading role in the 2001 Taiwanese Drama “Meteor Garden“, in which she acted alongside the then extremely popular boy group F4.
The drama was a hit in several Asian countries, with its theme songs and episode subtitles being translated into several languages to satisfy fan demand. Through it, Barbie gained recognition and fame all over Asia.
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Other prominent shows that Barbie has starred in during her acting career are “Mars” in 2004, “Corner with Love” in 2007, and “Summer’s Desire” in 2010.
She was seen much less frequently in the showbiz industry after her first marriage in 2011 to Chinese entrepreneur, Wang Xiaofei.
Together with Wang Xiaofei, Barbie had a daughter and son in 2014 and 2016 respectively.
In 2021, the couple divorced, reportedly due to cheating allegations and clashing political beliefs.
Barbie remarried again in 2022 to South Korean singer DJ Koo.
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Barbie’s sudden death comes completely unexpected for many netizens and fans, with many expressing their condolences and shock online.
Today, F4 member Ken Chu even shared a blank, dark screen, together with a group photo with Barbie, on Instagram, with the caption “What a bolt from the blue”.
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