Thai netizens are immersed in mourning today, as Taiwanese actress Da S (Xu Xiyuan) passed away in Japan due to pneumonia complicated by influenza, at the age of 48.
The news shocked the entire Thai society, especially since Da S starred in "Meteor Garden" in 2001, which introduced many Thais to Taiwanese dramas. Her role as "Shancai" and the classic theme song "Accompany You to Watch the Meteor Shower" became a shared memory of youth for the people of Thailand.
Thai netizens have expressed their condolences on social media, with many messages saying: "RIP my Shancai", "She was the first Taiwanese drama heroine I knew", "She introduced me to Taiwanese TV dramas", showing respect for her influence and significant position in Thai culture.
"Meteor Garden" not only caused a sensation in Thailand but also laid the foundation for the popularity of Taiwanese idol dramas in Thailand. In 2022, Thailand even launched its own version of "Meteor Garden", but many netizens said they still prefer Da S's version of Shancai, highlighting the unique place of the drama and Da S in the hearts of Thai viewers.
Thai media have widely reported the incident, calling her a "legendary actress" and reviewing the astonishing ratings "Meteor Garden" achieved in Thailand, marking it as a symbol of the spread of Taiwanese culture in Thailand. Classic scenes and dialogues from the drama are still widely sung among Thai viewers.
According to Xiao S, Da S was traveling in Japan with her family when she unfortunately passed away due to pneumonia complicated by influenza. At that time, Da S's ex-husband Wang Xiaofei was vacationing in Thailand and quickly returned to Taiwan upon receiving the news.
The sudden departure of Da S has left the Thai entertainment industry and fans deeply reluctant to let go, and social media is filled with memories and mourning. She will forever be the "Shancai" who grew up with the people of Thailand.
