Taiwanese Actress Barbie Hsu Passes Away at 48 After Pneumonia

Barbie Hsu, a beloved actress from Taiwan, who rose to fame through her involvement in the hit series "Meteor Garden," has tragically passed away at 48 after developing pneumonia linked to the flu. The actress, who was often referred to as "Da S," caught the flu during a family trip to Japan over the Lunar New Year, as shared by her sister Dee Hsu, who is also a notable TV personality.

Dee Hsu expressed her heartfelt sentiments in a statement, reminiscing about their close relationship as sisters and the care they provided each other. She did not disclose specific details surrounding Barbie's passing, but the news has resonated deeply within the communities in Taiwan and China, with many fans expressing disbelief and mourning on social media platforms like Weibo, where the news quickly became a trending topic.

Barbie Hsu first entered the entertainment industry as part of the pop music duo S.O.S. alongside her sister before transitioning to television hosting, where they captured the hearts of many young viewers. Her breakthrough role came in 2001 with "Meteor Garden," where she starred alongside the popular boy band F4, cementing her status as a household name across Asia.

Throughout her career, Hsu continued to evolve her presence in the entertainment field, participating in various shows, films, and talk programs. Her personal life, especially her divorce from businessman Wang Xiaofei and her subsequent marriage to Korean artist Koo Jun-yup, was frequently featured in the media, drawing significant public interest.

Passionate about animal rights, Hsu actively worked with several organizations, including PETA, advocating against fur sales and supporting animal welfare. A representative from PETA highlighted her significant contributions to the cause, noting her commitment and influence on behalf of animals.

Hsu leaves behind her husband Koo and two children from her previous marriage, and her untimely death has created a significant void for her family, friends, and fans alike.