Taiwanese Actress Barbie Hsu Dies at 48 from Pneumonia
In a tragic turn of events, Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu has passed away at the age of 48 after battling pneumonia, which was triggered by influenza during a vacation in Japan, according to local media reports.
Hsu, a prominent figure in the Mandarin-speaking world, rose to fame for her role in the popular 2001 TV series Meteor Garden, which was widely acclaimed and dubbed in multiple languages, propelling her to stardom in countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Confirmation of her untimely death was made by her sister, Dee Hsu, to Taiwan’s TVBS News, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
“During the Lunar New Year, our family was on vacation in Japan. My beloved sister Barbie succumbed to pneumonia, a complication of influenza,” Dee Hsu shared in a statement released by her manager.
Starting her career in entertainment at the age of 17 as part of a pop duo with her sister, Dee, Hsu quickly gained popularity for her vibrant personality and comedic flair as a host.
Speculations about Hsu’s passing began circulating on social media over the weekend, with fans expressing shock and disbelief upon receiving official confirmation of her demise on Monday.
On Chinese social media platform Weibo, Hsu became the top trending topic, with fans expressing their disbelief and sadness over the sudden loss of the talented actress.
Known for her role as Shancai in Meteor Garden, Hsu portrayed a character from a modest background caught up in a complex love story with wealthy heirs, played by members of the Taiwanese boyband F4.
Following the success of Meteor Garden, various adaptations of the series have been produced in different countries, further solidifying Hsu’s legacy in the entertainment industry.
Her co-star from Meteor Garden, Ken Chu, paid tribute to her on social media with a heartfelt message and a group photo, reflecting on the shock and grief felt by many.
Barbie Hsu’s legacy as a talented actress and beloved personality will continue to resonate with fans around the world, as they mourn the loss of a true talent taken too soon.
