In brief
The beloved actress, also known as Big S, captured hearts across Asia with her role as the resilient Dong Shan Cai in the hit series that redefined idol dramas.
Barbie Hsu, the Taiwanese actress who rose to fame in 2001 as the lead in the beloved teen drama series "Meteor Garden," has sadly passed away at the age of 48. She succumbed to complications from the flu while on vacation in Tokyo, as confirmed by her sister, Dee Hsu, to TVBS News.In "Meteor Garden," an adaptation of the popular manga "Boys Over Flowers," Ms. Hsu played the spirited Dong Shan Cai, a poor student navigating the challenges of high society after becoming entwined with a group of wealthy boys known as F4. Her captivating portrayal and infectious resilience drew fans across Asia, earning her the endearing nickname Big S.One of her character’s memorable quotes, "I am like a blade of grass," encapsulated her strength and appeal. The show not only skyrocketed her career but also launched the boy band F4, creating a template for the idol drama genre, filled with relatable love stories and pop culture impact.Barbie Hsu’s legacy as an actress, television host, and pop star will be cherished by many, and her influence on Asian entertainment will resonate for years to come.
