4-2-2025 (TOKYO) Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, best known for her iconic role in “Meteor Garden,” has died in Japan aged 48 following complications from influenza and pneumonia, sources close to the family have confirmed.
The beloved star fell ill whilst attending a social gathering in Taiwan last month, according to Taiwan’s Mirror Media. Despite feeling under the weather, Hsu proceeded with her planned Japanese holiday to avoid disappointing family members, a decision that would tragically prove fatal.
Upon arriving in Japan, the actress’s condition worsened considerably. She experienced persistent coughing fits and unusual drowsiness, forcing her to spend the initial 48 hours of her holiday confined to her hotel room. Though emergency services were contacted twice during her stay, crucial treatment windows were reportedly missed.
The star, who captured hearts across Asia as Shan Cai in the phenomenally successful 2001 drama series “Meteor Garden,” passed away in a Japanese hospital early Saturday morning, 2nd February. The news sent shockwaves through Taiwan’s entertainment industry, with close friends and family members expressing their utter disbelief at her sudden departure.
Whilst initial discussions centred around arranging a private charter to repatriate her remains to Taiwan, the family has ultimately opted for cremation in Japan. Her ashes will subsequently be transported back to her homeland, where arrangements for a memorial service are currently being finalised.
