Breaking News: A Star’s Tragic Farewell In the world of entertainment, few names are as iconic as Barbie Hsu, the Taiwanese actress who captured the hearts of millions with her captivating performance in the hit drama series “Meteor Garden”. The show, which first aired in 2001, catapulted Hsu to international stardom and cemented her status as a beloved figure in the Asian pop culture scene. Tragically, on February 6, 2023, news emerged that the 45-year-old actress had passed away, leaving fans around the globe in shock and mourning. As the entertainment industry grapples with the devastating loss, her husband, Wang Xiao-Peng, a South Korean businessman, has taken to social media to express his grief, giving a rare glimpse into the life of this talented actress. In this article, we will delve into the life and legacy of Barbie Hsu, and the heartfelt tribute from her husband, Wang Xiao-Peng, as
Barbie Hsu: Meteor Garden Star’s South Korean Husband Mourns Her Death
Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, who rose to fame with her role in the hit 2001 TV series Meteor Garden, has left fans across Asia in shock with her untimely passing at the age of 48.
Hsu, one of the biggest stars in the Mandarin-speaking world, was known for her versatility in playing a wide range of roles, from romantic dramas to variety shows. Her talent and charm have captivated audiences in Taiwan, China, Japan, and other parts of Asia.
Her husband, South Korean singer DJ Koo, has paid tribute to his late wife, describing her as his “angel” who “went back to heaven”.
“On 2 February, 2025, my angel returned to heaven… Right now, I am going through a time of gut-wrenching pain,” Koo wrote in a post on Instagram, calling for his family to be left alone in their grief.
His comments come after several Chinese language media published reports on who would inherit Hsu’s estate, which reportedly includes a property portfolio worth several million dollars.
The BBC is unable to verify these details, and Hsu’s family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Life and Career
Hsu began her career at 17 as part of a pop duo with her sister Dee. They became famous as TV hosts, known for their animated style and sense of humor. However, it was Meteor Garden that turned Hsu into a star whose fame stretched beyond Chinese entertainment.
In the drama, Hsu played Shancai, a teen from a middle-class family who attends an elite private school and finds herself entangled in a love web with the heirs of wealthy families.
Her four male co-stars in Meteor Garden would later form the Taiwanese boyband F4, one of the most popular Mandopop groups of the 2000s.
On Monday, F4 member Ken Chu shared a black, empty screen as well as a group photo with Hsu on Instagram.
Then on Weibo, he wrote: “What a bolt from the blue.”
Legacy and Career Highlights
Hsu starred in more than a dozen TV shows and movies, including popular romantic dramas like Corner With Love and Summer’s Desire.
She took a break from acting in 2012, but continued to appear in reality shows.
Aya Liu, a host and long-time friend of the Hsu sisters, wrote on Weibo that she had met Hsu at a gathering last month, where they had promised to meet more often.
“I didn’t think that would be our last gathering,” Liu wrote. “Rest in peace, the most beautiful queen.”
- Meteor Garden: Taiwanese star Barbie Hsu dies at 48
- Hsu was best-known for starring in the hit 2001 TV series Meteor Garden
- She was one of the biggest stars in the Mandarin-speaking world
- Hsu became a familiar face even in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand after Meteor Garden was dubbed in local languages
Personal Life
Hsu married Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei in 2010, with whom she had two children. The couple were married for 10 years before an acrimonious divorce in 2021.
After their divorce, Hsu reconnected with Koo and they were married in 2022.
Hsu’s family has been her top priority throughout her career, and she often spoke about the importance of family in her interviews.
Her death has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues expressing their condolences on social media.
As Koo mourns the loss of his wife, he has asked for his family to be left alone in their grief, saying: “Please, can you just let Hsu rest in peace?”
Barbie Hsu’s Estate and Inheritance
Hsu’s estate is reportedly worth millions of dollars, with a property portfolio that includes several properties in Taiwan and China.
The BBC is unable to verify the exact value of her estate, but it is believed to be one of the most valuable in the Mandarin-speaking world.
Koo has announced that he will give full authority over Hsu’s assets to his mother-in-law, saying: “All of Hsu’s assets were earned through her hard work to support the family she loved.”
He has also stated that he will take legal measures to protect his children’s share of the estate until they reach adulthood.
Hsu’s family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, and it is unclear how her estate will be divided among her heirs.
However, Koo’s decision to give full authority over her assets to his mother-in-law has been seen as a gesture of goodwill and respect for Hsu’s memory.
Reaction from Fans and Colleagues
Hsu’s death has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues expressing their condolences on social media.
Many have paid tribute to her talent and charm, remembering her for her iconic roles in Meteor Garden and other popular dramas.
Co-star Vic Chou, who played Hsu’s love interest in Meteor Garden, has paid tribute to her memory, saying: “She was an incredibly talented actress and a wonderful person to work with.”
Aya Liu, a host and long-time friend of the Hsu sisters, has also paid tribute to Hsu’s memory, saying: “Rest in peace, the most beautiful queen.”
The outpouring of support for Hsu’s family has been overwhelming, with fans and colleagues offering their condolences and sharing their memories of her.
As Koo mourns the loss of his wife, he has asked for his family to be left alone in their grief, saying: “Please, can you just let Hsu rest in peace?”
Conclusion
The sudden passing of Barbie Hsu has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, leaving a void in the hearts of countless fans. Her remarkable journey from Taiwanese idol to global star, culminating in her iconic portrayal of Shan Cai in “Meteor Garden,” resonated with millions. Though her life was tragically cut short, her legacy as a talented actress and a symbol of strength and resilience will continue to inspire. Hsu’s death also sheds light on the immense pressure that public figures face, particularly women in the entertainment industry. The intense scrutiny and relentless demands can take a toll, reminding us of the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being. As we mourn the loss of a beloved figure, let us also use this opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by those in the public eye and strive to create a more compassionate and supportive environment. Barbie Hsu’s light may have dimmed, but her impact on the world of entertainment and beyond will continue to shine brightly.