5 Tragic Details Surrounding Barbie Hsu's Death: The True Cause Behind The 'Meteor Garden' Star's Sudden Passing

The shocking news of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu's passing has reverberated across Asia, leaving millions of fans in mourning. As of today, December 18, 2025, the confirmed cause of death for the beloved star, famously known as Big S (大S), is a tragic complication following a severe viral infection. The suddenness of her death at the age of 48, while on a trip to Japan, has sparked intense curiosity and grief among her global fanbase, particularly those who remember her iconic role as Shan Cai in the 2001 drama Meteor Garden.

The official reports confirm that Barbie Hsu's death was caused by pneumonia resulting from complications with influenza. This devastating news, which occurred on February 2, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan, brings a somber end to the life of an entertainment icon who captivated audiences for over three decades. The following is a deep dive into the actress’s life, the circumstances of her final days, and the lasting impact of her loss on her family and the entertainment industry.

Barbie Hsu (Big S) Complete Biography and Profile

Barbie Hsu, born Xu Xiyuan (徐熙媛), was a powerhouse in the Taiwanese entertainment industry, known for her versatility as an actress, singer, and television host. Her career trajectory, often intertwined with her younger sister Dee Hsu, cemented her status as a cultural icon across East Asia.

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• Full Name: Xu Xiyuan (徐熙媛)
• Nickname(s): Big S (大S), Da S, Barbie
• Date of Birth: October 6, 1976
• Date of Death: February 2, 2025
• Age at Death: 48
• Place of Death: Tokyo, Japan
• Cause of Death: Pneumonia from influenza complications
• Nationality: Taiwanese
• Education: Drama Department of Huagang Art School
• Career Start: 1994, as part of the pop duo S.O.S. (Sisters of the S)
• Most Famous Role: Shan Cai in the 2001 television drama Meteor Garden
• First Marriage (Ex-Husband): Wang Xiaofei (m. 2010; div. 2021)
• Second Marriage (Husband): Koo Jun-yup (DJ Koo) (m. 2022)
• Children: Two children from her first marriage with Wang Xiaofei

Barbie Hsu's early career began in the pop music scene alongside her sister, Dee Hsu (Little S), forming the duo S.O.S.. Her transition to acting was marked by the phenomenal success of *Meteor Garden*, a show credited with ushering in the 'idol drama' era across Asia. Her acting credits also include the films *Silk* (2006) and *Connected* (2008), showcasing her dramatic range beyond romantic leads.

The Confirmed Cause of Death: Influenza-Induced Pneumonia

The initial confusion and speculation surrounding Barbie Hsu's sudden passing were quickly addressed by official family statements. The reports confirmed that the actress succumbed to severe respiratory illness.

A Rapid Decline During a Family Trip

The events leading up to her death unfolded rapidly while the Hsu family was on a trip to Tokyo, Japan. Sources close to the family and tour guides revealed a timeline that suggested her health deteriorated quickly:

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• Barbie Hsu was reportedly already experiencing a cough on the first day of the trip.
• On February 1, 2025, the day before her passing, she felt unwell and visited a small local hospital in Tokyo.
• Due to the severity of her condition, she was then referred to a larger medical facility for more intensive care.
• Despite the efforts of the medical team, the influenza infection had already progressed to severe pneumonia, leading to her unfortunate passing on February 2, 2025.

The sheer speed of the illness's progression highlights the serious and sometimes fatal nature of influenza complications, especially pneumonia, even for individuals who appear to be in good health. The news served as a stark reminder of how quickly viral infections can turn life-threatening.

The Factor of Pre-Existing Health Conditions

While the immediate cause was influenza-induced pneumonia, it is important to note that Barbie Hsu had faced multiple health challenges throughout her life. She had been open about her struggles with epilepsy in the past, a condition that can sometimes make the body more vulnerable to severe complications from infections like the flu.

Her health had been a concern for years, particularly following the birth of her two children. Although she had often appeared resilient and energetic in public, her body's underlying vulnerabilities may have contributed to her inability to fight off the aggressive viral pneumonia. This context adds a layer of tragedy to her passing, as it was not a singular, sudden event but the culmination of a life-long battle with health issues.

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The Aftermath: Family Grief and Legacy

Barbie Hsu’s death has had a profound impact on her family, particularly her sister, Dee Hsu, and her second husband, South Korean musician DJ Koo (Koo Jun-yup). The overwhelming public response and tributes from fans across the globe underscore her immense legacy.

Dee Hsu's Heartfelt Mourning

The bond between the two sisters, Barbie (Big S) and Dee (Little S), was a cornerstone of their public lives, both starting their careers together in the pop duo S.O.S.. Dee Hsu, a well-known TV host, publicly mourned her sister with heartfelt posts, thanking the public for their support and respect for the Hsu family. The younger sister's grief was palpable, demonstrating the deep connection between the two stars who had navigated the demanding entertainment industry side-by-side for decades.

DJ Koo's Vow and the Estate Division

Barbie Hsu’s husband, DJ Koo, whom she dramatically reconnected with and married in 2022 after a 20-year separation, vowed to protect their children in the wake of her death. The couple's romantic reunion had been widely celebrated, making the loss even more poignant. In the financial aftermath, reports indicated that Barbie Hsu’s substantial estate, estimated to be around NT$600 million (approximately US$18.2 million), would be divided between DJ Koo and her two children.

The Custody Battle with Ex-Husband Wang Xiaofei

A complex situation arose regarding the custody of her two children from her first marriage to Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei. Despite the presence of her current husband, DJ Koo, reports suggested that the custody of the children was ultimately granted to her ex-husband, Wang Xiaofei, following her death. This development added a layer of legal complexity and public scrutiny to the Hsu family’s private tragedy, as the two men—DJ Koo and Wang Xiaofei—were seen standing united in grief during the initial farewells.

Barbie Hsu’s legacy extends far beyond her on-screen roles. She was a trendsetter, a devoted family member, and a symbol of Taiwanese entertainment's golden age. Her sudden death from influenza-induced pneumonia in February 2025 serves as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact she had on pop culture across Asia.