Barbie Hsu/Instagram 

MANILA, Philippines – The news of the untimely death of Taiwanese superstar Barbie Hsu shook the online world leaving netizens wondering why she fell to influenza-induced pneumonia. But reports said the actress already had a history of health struggles. 

According to a report from Focus Taiwan, Barbie once opened up about having a heart disease called Mitral Valve Prolapse, as well as epilepsy. She even nearly died of childbirth in 2016 and was recently hospitalized due to seizures. 

According to Cleveland Clinic, a “Mitral valve prolapse is a common heart issue with floppy valve leaflets that don’t close tightly. It’s harmless for most people, but can become dangerous if it leads to severe mitral regurgitation (leaky valve). People with severe regurgitation may need valve repair or replacement.” 

In late January the actress, along with her family, flew to Japan but she caught influenza which progressed to pneumonia causing her death on February 3. 

Her sister Dee Hsu confirmed the news through her agent. 

“Our whole family came to Japan for a trip, and my dearest and most kindhearted sister Barbie Hsu died of influenza-induced pneumonia and unfortunately left us,” she said. 

Apart from her fans, her equally iconic love team partner Jerry Yan, who played Dao Ming Si in the phenomenal Asia series “Meteor Garden” penned a moving, heartfelt message for her. 

Other “Meteor Garden” cast who posted messages for Barbie include Ken Chu and Raine Yang who both played Xi Men and Xiao You. 

RELATED STORIES:

Raine Yang, Barbie Hsu’s ‘Meteor Garden’ best friend mourns death of actress  

Jerry Yan to Barbie Hsu: ‘Thank you for the happy memories that you brought us during our youth’ 

Meteor Garden star Barbie Hsu passes away at 48 due to pneumonia