Taiwanese actress-host Barbie Hsu, renowned for her role in the popular series "Meteor Garden," passed away on February 2, 2024, at the age of 48. The beloved actress succumbed to complications from pneumonia after contracting the flu during a family trip to Japan. Her unexpected demise has left her family, friends, and fans in profound grief.
Barbie had been married to South Korean musician DJ Koo since February 8, 2022. The couple was on the brink of celebrating their third wedding anniversary. She leaves behind two young children from her previous marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, prompting an outpour of tributes from celebrity friends and colleagues.
Her sister Dee Hsu announced the tragic news to the media, expressing her gratitude for having Barbie as a sister. Friend and Taiwanese actress Pace Wu rushed from Hokkaido to Tokyo to join Barbie's family during their vacation. Wu later expressed her heartbreak, stating:
"It's really heartbreaking to send off my beloved best friend," – Pace Wu
Wu added that she would always cherish the kindness and beauty that Barbie exuded:
"I will always remember her kindness and her beauty. I will never forget Barbie, who always told me she loved me at the end of every phone call." – Pace Wu
Barbie's husband, DJ Koo, confirmed the authenticity of her death and shared his shock and sadness at losing his partner. He had previously hosted alongside actor Blackie Chen, with whom Barbie had a long-term relationship before marrying Koo.
The entertainment community has come together to honor Barbie's legacy. Singer-host Aya Liu, who had known Barbie for over 30 years, shared memories of their last meeting and expressed disbelief at her passing:
"We talked about how wonderful these gatherings were and how we shouldn't wait too long for the next one. I really didn't expect that would be the last time we got together," – Aya Liu
Meteor Garden's cast and crew also paid homage to Barbie. Ken Chu, Peter Ho, and Huang Xiaoming expressed their sorrow, with Xiaoming reflecting on their enduring friendship:
"I am still in shock and my heart aches. I can't accept this bad news. It's really hard. Fifteen years have passed like sand through our hands." – Xiaoming
"I hope that on the other side where she goes, the cherry blossoms will never fall, and turn into the evening breeze to embrace the stars." – Xiaoming
Producer Angie Chai reminisced about the good times shared with Barbie:
"We've had so many good times. You are just like my own sister, so brave, smart, beautiful and full of justice…" – Angie Chai
"Thank you for your perfect contribution in my works. I love you so much and I will always remember you!" – Angie Chai
Other noteworthy figures also joined in tribute. Alex Dung, who played Barbie's on-screen father, reflected on their rare interactions over the years:
"Her life was really too short. I will pray for her, and then I will pay my respects after her family has things settled." – Alex
Singer-host Matilda Tao lamented her disbelief upon hearing the news shortly after seeing Barbie:
"Still can't believe it! Still very shocked! We met just before the Chinese New Year," – Matilda Tao
Barbie's contributions to entertainment have left an indelible mark on fans worldwide. Her co-star Peter Ho expressed gratitude for the joy she brought:
"Thank you for giving everyone so much joy and leaving so many works for us. Those are the precious memories she's left for us." – Peter
Vivian Hsu's poignant words echo the sentiments of many who knew Barbie:
"My dear, RIP. Kindness will continue to be around. Love will always be here." – Vivian Hsu
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