Filipinos have long had a special place in their hearts for Taiwanese actress-singer Barbie Hsu, thanks to her iconic role as Shancai in the hit TV series Meteor Garden. The show, which first aired on ABS-CBN Channel 2 in 2003, captured the hearts of millions and skyrocketed Hsu’s popularity in the Philippines. The undeniable charm of her portrayal, paired with the unforgettable chemistry between her character and Jerry Yan’s Dao Ming Si, made Meteor Garden a defining show in Filipino pop culture.
Photo from ABS-CBN News
When Hsu visited the Philippines twice in 2003, her arrival was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Fans flocked to the airport, eager to catch a glimpse of the beloved actress. The fervor of the Filipino audience during these visits was a testament to how Meteor Garden transcended borders and became a phenomenon in the country.
During her visit, the scenes of Hsu walking through the crowd were like something out of a dream for many of her fans, as they screamed in delight, hoping to get close to the star. This was a time when Korean dramas were not yet as widespread, and the Taiwanese series Meteor Garden was a trailblazer in introducing Asian dramas to a larger Filipino audience. The chemistry between Hsu and Yan, along with their fellow Meteor Garden cast members, sparked a cultural wave that Filipinos eagerly embraced.
One of the highlights of her visit was an interview on ABS-CBN’s morning show, where Hsu sat down with host Pia Guanio. Fans were delighted as the actress shared insights about her life, career, and experiences working on Meteor Garden. Hsu’s warm and genuine personality made her an instant favorite among the Filipino public. She also performed in a concert during her trip, which further solidified her connection with Filipino fans.
As we look back at this memorable moment in pop culture, it’s clear that Barbie Hsu’s impact on Filipino audiences in the early 2000s was profound. Her portrayal of Shancai, alongside Jerry Yan’s Dao Ming Si, remains one of the most iconic onscreen pairings in Asian television history. Hsu’s visits to the Philippines, marked by the overwhelming love of her fans, became a shining example of how powerful the connection between Filipino audiences and international stars can be.
"HI! THIS IS YOUR KAPAMILYA, BARBIE" ❤
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) February 3, 2025
THROWBACK: Napamahal ang Taiwanese actress-singer sa mga Pilipino dahil sa pinagbidahang series niyang “Meteor Garden” na unang pinalabas sa ABS-CBN Channel 2 noong 2003. Kaya sa dalawang beses na bumisita siya sa Pilipinas noong taong… pic.twitter.com/xEWLDA3XUR