By Raymond Dimayuga
The passing of Barbie Hsu at 48 due to pneumonia has left a deep void in the hearts of many across Asia. Best known for her role as Shan Cai in the 2001 hit drama Meteor Garden, Hsu was a defining figure for an entire generation of Filipino viewers.The show, an adaptation of Hana Yori Dango, introduced audiences to the F4 phenomenon, setting the stage for the rise of Asian dramas in Philippine pop culture.
When Meteor Garden first aired, no matter what I was doing, I made sure to be in front of the television at its scheduled time. Unlike today, where streaming services allow us to watch at our convenience, missing an episode then meant completely losing out. It was a must-watch show, mucRemembering Barbie Hsu and the Cultural Legacy oh like Ghost Fighter and Slam Dunk, programs that had similar grip on my generation.
As I recall the iconic moments of Meteor Garden, the song Qing Fei De Yi by Harlem Yu plays in my head— a melody that instantly transports me back to the height of the show’s phenomenon. That song, coupled with unforgettable scenes of Shan Cai and Dao Ming Si’s love story, became the soundtrack of an era, evoking both nostalgia and deep emotions.
This series— or perhaps my musings about this series, may seem like a total waste of space. But the truth is, Meteor Garden defined an era of television viewing for our generation. It wasn’t just a show. It was a cultural moment that brought peopl etogether, dictating our schedules, shaping our idea of romance, and marking the beginning of our love for Asian dramas.
For many Filipinos, Meteor Garden was more than just a TV series— it was a movement. It was the first major Asian drama to dominate Philippine television, paving the way for the widespread popularity of Korean drama and other Asian series.The love story between Shan Cai and Dao Ming Si, played by Jerry Yan, became a cultural touchstone, sparking fan clubs,merchandise, and even influencing local adaptations of similar stories.
Hsu’s portrayal of the strong-willed yet relatable Shan Cai resonated deeply, especially with young women who saw her as a symbol of resilience against class struggles and societal expectations. Her chemistry with the F4, the stylish aesthetic of the show, and its unforgettable soundtrack became embedded in Philippine pop culture, proving the power of well-crafted storytelling.
With Hsu’s passing, fans mourn not just the actress but an era of nostalgia and youthful romance that she helped define. Her contribution to Asian drama remains immortal, and for those who grew up watching Meteor Garden, her legacy will always shine as brightly as the love stories she brought to life.
Eat the Worm is a weekly column that dives headfirst into unconventional ideas, uncomfortable truths, and the gritty realities we often shy away from. Much like the brave tradition of “eating the worm” in a tequila bottle, this column challenges readers to confront the hard stuff with courage and curiosity. This is a fearless exploration of life’s rawest and most compelling topics.