Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu captured the hearts of audiences across Asia, particularly in the Philippines, with her unforgettable roles in various drama series and films. Best known for her role as Shan Cai in Meteor Garden, Barbie played a significant role in the popularity of Asian dramas in the early 2000s.
As fans mourn her unexpected passing on February 3 due to pneumonia caused by influenza complications, here’s a look at some of her most memorable work that left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
READ: Taiwan's 'Meteor Garden' star Barbie Hsu dies at 48
Meteor Garden (2001)
Meteor Garden, a Taiwanese adaptation of the popular Japanese manga Hana Yori Dango, made Barbie a household name. The series was a massive hit across Asia, especially in the Philippines, where it introduced the "Asianovela" phenomenon. Barbie played the role of Shan Cai, a strong-willed and kind-hearted girl who becomes entangled with the elite and arrogant F4 group.
The drama became widely popular, with fans even visiting some of the shooting locations in Taiwan to recreate iconic scenes. A sequel followed in 2002, telling the story of Shan Cai as she tried to help Dao Ming Si regain his lost memories after a car accident in Barcelona.
Mars (2004)
Starring alongside her Meteor Garden co-star Vic Zhou, Barbie showcased her range as an actress in the drama Mars.The series told the story of an outgoing young man, Chen Ling (Vic), who falls in love with a shy art student, Qi Luo (Barbie), after seeing her artwork depicting a mother and baby.
Mars became one of the most popular dramas in Taiwan in 2005. Interestingly, Barbie and Vic started dating in 2005 but ended their relationship after three years.
@erinayunita1 Nostalgia with Vic Zhou & Barbie Hsu on Mars Drama (2004) #shancai#vicchou#barbiehsu#meteorgarden β¬ Rang Wo Ai Ni (with Xi-Yuan Xu) - Vic Chou
The Ghost Inside (2005)
Taking a turn into the horror genre, Barbie portrayed Lin Xiaoyue, a young mother fleeing from her abusive husband with their daughter, only to be haunted by a ghost who suffered a similar fate in the film The Ghost Inside.
Produced by the China Film Group, the film was the most expensive horror film ever made in China at the time of its filming.
Corner With Love (2007)
Bringing both romance and comedy, Barbie paired up with Taiwanese actor Show Lo in Corner With Love. The series tells the story of a wealthy girl and a struggling artist whose paths cross unexpectedly, leading to an endearing love story filled with heartwarming moments and humor.
Connected (2008)
Barbie thrilled audiences with her role in the Hong Kong action thriller Connected. She played a kidnapped woman who manages to reach out to a stranger for help, leading to an intense race against time.
The film was inspired by the Hollywood movie Cellular and was created in response to Hong Kong’s increasing cell phone user population at the time.
On His Majesty's Secret Service (2009)
Stepping into a more lighthearted and action-packed role, Barbie starred in the comedic martial arts film On His Majesty’s Secret Service. She played Faithful, the fiancée of one of the emperor’s 12 secret royal guards, Royal Dog.
The film served as a parody of the 1996 film Forbidden City Cop (for its Chinese title) and the James Bond movie On Her Majesty's Secret Service (for its English title).
Summer’s Desire (2010)
Returning to intense romantic drama, Barbie played Yin Xiaomo in Summer’s Desire, a series adapted from a novel. Once again caught between two powerful men, her character navigates a complex love story that captivated audiences.
Barbie also showcased her musical talents by singing three of the series' official soundtracks: “Diamond,” “Mermaid in the Foam,” and “This is Love.”