Remembering Barbie Hsu: The Legacy of 'Meteor Garden' Star and Her Impact on Pop Culture

 

Remembering Barbie Hsu: The Legacy of 'Meteor Garden' Star and Her Impact on Pop Culture

Barbie Hsu, beloved for her role as Dong Shan Cai in the 2001 Taiwanese drama Meteor Garden, tragically passed away at the age of 48. Her death was caused by pneumonia, a complication from the flu she contracted during a family vacation in Japan.

A Look Back at 'Meteor Garden'

Meteor Garden is a Taiwanese adaptation of the Japanese manga Hana Yori Dango. The series follows Shan Cai, a strong-willed young woman who stands up to the elite F4 group at her university. The show quickly became a sensation across Asia, with its cast gaining fame, especially in countries like Indonesia.

The Original Cast: Where Are They Now?

  • Barbie Hsu as Dong Shan Cai: Barbie's portrayal of Shan Cai made her a household name. After Meteor Garden, she starred in other TV shows and films such as Corner with Love and Summer’s Desire. She retired from entertainment in 2022 after her divorce and later remarried singer DJ Koo Jun-yup.
  • Jerry Yan as Dao Ming Si: Following Meteor Garden, Jerry pursued a successful music career, releasing albums and starring in dramas like The Hospital and Down With Love.
  • Vic Chou as Hua Ze Lei: Vic transitioned to music, releasing albums and holding concerts, becoming a successful singer and musician.
  • Ken Chu as Xi Men: Ken also focused on music, releasing albums and starring in TV dramas like The Hospital.
  • Vanness Wu as Mei Zuo: Vanness pursued a successful music career after the show, releasing multiple albums and performing concerts.

Where to Watch 'Meteor Garden'

For those wanting to revisit Meteor Garden, the series is available on a variety of streaming platforms. Availability may vary depending on your region, so be sure to check local services or purchase options.

Remembering Barbie Hsu

Barbie Hsu’s passing marks the end of an era for Meteor Garden fans. Her portrayal of Dong Shan Cai left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. She is survived by her second husband, DJ Koo, and their two children from her previous marriage.

Her legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the immense impact Meteor Garden and its talented cast have had on pop culture.