Barbie Hsu, affectionately known as “Big S,” was a Taiwanese actress, singer, and television host who captivated audiences across East Asia with her talent and charm. Born on October 6, 1976, in Taipei, Taiwan, she rose to prominence with her role in the 2001 television drama “Meteor Garden.” Her career spanned over three decades, during which she made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Family Background
Barbie Hsu was born to parents Hsu Chien and Huang Chun-mei in Taipei. She was the middle child, with an elder sister, Hsu Si-hsien, and a younger sister, Dee Hsu, who is also a well-known television host. The Hsu family owned a jewelry business in Taipei, providing a comfortable upbringing for their children.
Rise to Fame with S.O.S
In 1994, Barbie and her sister Dee formed the pop duo S.O.S, debuting with the hit song “Ten-Minute Love.” The duo quickly gained popularity in Taiwan’s music scene. However, contractual disputes with their agency led to challenges in their early careers.
Breakthrough Role in “Meteor Garden”
Barbie’s acting career took a significant turn when she was cast as Shan Cai in the Taiwanese drama “Meteor Garden” in 2001. The series was a massive success, not only in Taiwan but also across East Asia, making her a household name. Her portrayal of the strong-willed and compassionate protagonist resonated with audiences and solidified her status as a leading actress.
Subsequent Acting Career
After gaining massive fame from Meteor Garden (2001), Barbie Hsu continued to establish herself as one of the most talented actresses in the Asian entertainment industry. Her subsequent acting career saw her taking on diverse roles in both television dramas and films, showcasing her versatility. Below is a detailed look at her acting journey after Meteor Garden.
Transition from Idol Drama to Mature Roles
Following her breakthrough, Barbie Hsu sought to evolve beyond the “idol drama” genre. She took on more serious and mature roles, proving her capabilities as an actress. Her performances in critically acclaimed projects solidified her reputation as a leading lady in Taiwanese and Chinese entertainment.
Notable Television Dramas
Even after Meteor Garden, Barbie Hsu remained active in television, taking up challenging roles that showcased her emotional depth. Some of her most well-received dramas include:
1. Mars (2004)
- Barbie starred alongside Vic Chou, her former Meteor Garden co-star, in this psychological drama.
- She played Han Qi Luo, an introverted and traumatized artist who falls in love with a rebellious motorcycle racer.
- The drama was widely praised for its mature themes, deep storytelling, and Barbie’s emotional performance.
2. Corner With Love (2007)
- A romantic comedy where she played Xin Lei, a wealthy and spoiled girl who loses everything and must start anew.
- The show was a hit in Taiwan and mainland China, further cementing her popularity.
3. Summer’s Desire (2010)
- This drama marked Barbie’s return to television after a three-year hiatus.
- She portrayed Xia Mo, a strong-willed woman entangled in a love triangle.
- The series was a major success and is considered one of her most mature performances.
Film Career and Breakthrough in Chinese Cinema
Barbie Hsu also made a successful transition to the big screen, starring in a variety of films that ranged from romantic dramas to action thrillers. Some of her key films include:
1. Silk (2006)
- A Taiwanese horror-thriller film in which she played Su Yufen, a scientist investigating paranormal activities.
- The film was well-received internationally and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.
2. Connected (2008)
- A Hong Kong action thriller where she played Grace Wong, a kidnapped woman trying to escape.
- The film was a remake of Hollywood’s Cellular and showcased Barbie’s ability to take on high-intensity roles.
3. Reign of Assassins (2010)
- A martial arts film where she starred alongside Michelle Yeoh.
- Barbie portrayed Zhang Haiduan, a woman caught in the world of assassins and revenge.
- The film was a commercial and critical success, proving her ability to perform in historical action films.
Hiatus and Return to the Entertainment Industry
After marrying Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei in 2011, Barbie Hsu took a break from acting to focus on her family. However, she remained active in the entertainment industry through hosting and public appearances.
In 2022, following her marriage to South Korean musician DJ Koo, Barbie expressed interest in returning to acting. Rumors of her comeback surfaced, exciting longtime fans.
Legacy in the Entertainment Industry
Barbie Hsu’s career spanned over two decades, making her one of Taiwan’s most influential actresses. Her ability to transition from teenage idol dramas to serious roles in both television and film set her apart. Even after her break from acting, her impact on Asian pop culture remained significant.
Personal Life
Barbie married Chinese entrepreneur Wang Xiaofei in 2011, and the couple had two children together. After their divorce in 2021, she rekindled a past romance with Korean rapper Koo Jun-yup, also known as DJ Koo. The two married in 2022, demonstrating that love can indeed find its way back.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 163 cm (5 feet 4 inches) tall and weighing approximately 44 kg (97 lbs), Barbie had a slender and graceful physique. Her expressive eyes and radiant smile were among her most captivating features, contributing to her enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Barbie Hsu’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million. Her wealth was accumulated through her successful acting career, music ventures, and various endorsements. Additionally, her entrepreneurial endeavors and investments contributed to her financial standing.
Detailed Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Barbie Hsu (Hsu Hsi Yuan) |
| Date of Birth | October 6, 1976 |
| Place of Birth | Taipei, Taiwan |
| Parents | Hsu Chien (father), Huang Chun-mei (mother) |
| Siblings | Hsu Si-hsien (elder sister), Dee Hsu (younger sister) |
| Height | 163 cm (5 feet 4 inches) |
| Weight | 44 kg (97 lbs) |
| Spouses | Wang Xiaofei (m. 2011; div. 2021), Koo Jun-yup (m. 2022) |
| Children | Two |
| Occupation | Actress, Singer, Television Host |
| Years Active | 1994–2025 |
| Net Worth (2024) | Approximately $20 million |
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @barbiehsu | ||
| @大S |
Latest News
Tragically, Barbie Hsu passed away on February 2, 2025, at the age of 48, due to influenza-induced pneumonia while on a family vacation in Japan. Her sister, Dee Hsu, confirmed the news, expressing profound grief over the loss. Barbie’s untimely death has led to an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, highlighting her significant impact on the entertainment industry.(reuters.com)
FAQs
What was Barbie Hsu’s most famous role?
This question highlights Barbie Hsu’s most iconic and well-known role, which was Shan Cai in the 2001 Taiwanese drama “Meteor Garden.” This role earned her immense fame, not only in Taiwan but also across East Asia, making her one of the most recognized actresses of her generation. The drama’s popularity helped solidify her place in the entertainment industry.
2. Who were Barbie Hsu’s spouses?
Barbie was married to Wang Xiaofei, a Chinese entrepreneur, in 2011. They had two children together but divorced in 2021. Later, Barbie rekindled a relationship with Koo Jun-yup, a Korean rapper known as DJ Koo, and they married in 2022. This section helps readers understand her personal life and relationships, which often draw public interest.
3. How many children did Barbie Hsu have?
This question provides insight into Barbie’s family life. She had two children with her first husband, Wang Xiaofei. The personal details about her children and family often spark curiosity among fans who admire the actress for her career and lifestyle choices.
4. What was Barbie Hsu’s net worth in 2024?
Readers are often curious about celebrities’ wealth. Barbie Hsu’s net worth was estimated at around $20 million as of 2024, derived from her successful acting, singing, and television hosting career, as well as her various business ventures. This figure helps paint a picture of her financial success and the impact of her long career in entertainment.
5. When did Barbie Hsu pass away?
This section addresses the unfortunate passing of Barbie Hsu, which happened on February 2, 2025. This was due to influenza-induced pneumonia while she was on a family vacation in Japan. This section provides closure to readers who may have been following her career and life and clarifies any rumors or news regarding her death.
6. What was Barbie Hsu’s height and weight?
People often want to know about the physical attributes of celebrities, especially those in the entertainment industry. Barbie Hsu’s height was 163 cm (5 feet 4 inches) and her weight was 44 kg (97 lbs). This section helps readers visualize her physical appearance, especially since she was known for her beauty and graceful presence on-screen.