Barbie Hsu, the beloved Taiwanese actress known for her iconic role in the hit drama Meteor Garden, has tragically passed away at the age of 48 due to pneumonia stemming from a flu infection. The news, confirmed by her sister Dee Hsu, surfaced as fans around Asia express their shock and grief over the loss of this beloved figure in Chinese-speaking entertainment.

Hsu reportedly contracted the flu during a family vacation in Japan for the Lunar New Year, which led to complications that ultimately resulted in her untimely demise. Dee conveyed her sentiments, stating, “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,” reflecting the deep bond shared between the sisters.

The actress, often referred to as "Big S," transitioned to stardom through her lead role in Meteor Garden, which debuted in 2001 and captivated audiences across Asia, including massive followings in countries such as the Philippines and Thailand. Her portrayal of the determined and loving Shancai struck a chord with millions, turning her into a household name. The show also catapulted the boyband F4, made up of her male co-stars, into mega stardom.

In addition to her acting career, Hsu gained fame as part of the pop duo S.O.S with her sister in the mid-1990s, later evolving into a successful TV host alongside their signature humor. After a prominent career filled with notable shows, Hsu’s life took a few turbulent turns, notably her contentious divorce from businessman Wang Xiaofei in 2021, which was widely covered in the media. She remarried South Korean musician Koo Jun-yup in 2022.

Hsu's unexpected death has reverberated across social media platforms, particularly Weibo, where tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists alike. “What a bolt from the blue,” expressed co-star Ken Chu, capturing the sentiment of loss felt by many. Hsu is survived by her husband, her two children, and a legacy marked by her influence on pop culture and dedication to animal rights, as evidenced by her partnership with PETA throughout her life.

Fans are left reeling from the shocking news, reflecting on the impact Hsu had through her work and the heartfelt moments she shared with her audience. For more details, see SCMP, BBC, and CNN.