Alice and Ellen Kessler, the iconic German twin entertainers who dazzled audiences across Europe and the United States, died together at the age of 89 after choosing assisted euthanasia in their home near Munich. Authorities confirmed that the sisters ended their lives through medical aid in dying, a process allowed in Germany since 2019. Police ruled out foul play and reported that the twins had prepared for this decision with full awareness and support.
Germany newspaper Blid reported that the twins told close associates that they no longer wished to continue living, and chose assisted euthanasia.
Born on August 20, 1936, in Nerchau, Saxony, Alice and Ellen began dance training as children and studied ballet at the Leipzig Opera. Their lives changed dramatically in 1952 when their family fled East Germany. Soon after, the sisters joined the Bluebell Girls in Paris and performed at the famous Lido, where they captivated audiences with their precision, elegance and radiant charisma.
Their fame soared in Italy through television shows such as Studio Uno. In the United States, they appeared on celebrated programs including The Red Skelton Hour and The Ed Sullivan Show. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the Kessler Twins became symbols of post war optimism and artistry.
They starred in the 1963 film Sodom and Gomorrah and once appeared on the cover of Life magazine. Their most famous choreography titled Da da un pa earned them admiration across Europe and cemented their status as cultural icons. Over their careers, they received significant honors, including the Federal Cross of Merit.
German Society for Humane Dying supported the twins during the assisted dying process. The sisters took life ending medication together in their Munich area home. Their decision appears consistent with the way they lived. Always in sync. Always choosing unity.
The sisters had spoken openly in recent years about their shared wishes. They revealed in earlier interviews that they wanted to be cremated together and placed in one urn beside their mother Elsa and their beloved dog Yello. Their will reflected this desire for eternal togetherness.
Germany’s top court has ruled that every person has the right to decide when and how to die.
Assisting suicide is not punishable if the individual makes a free and informed choice.
Lawmakers are split between two approaches.
One proposal requires strict conditions such as psychiatric evaluations and counselling.
The other proposal prioritises personal autonomy and allows access to life ending medication without mandatory counselling.
Critics worry that vulnerable people may feel pressured into such decisions.
News of their deaths prompted emotional tributes from colleagues, fans and broadcasters. Italian radio described them as an absolute symbol of European entertainment and praised their artistic discipline and warmth. Many remembered their graceful stage presence while others noted the strength of their lifelong bond.
References:
1. DW. 2023. “Assisted Suicide: Germany Weighs Autonomy and Ethics.” Deutsche Welle, July 4, 2023 https://www.dw.com/en/assisted-suicide-germany-weighs-autonomy-and-ethics/a-66111477
(Rh/ARC/MSM)