Alice and Ellen Kessler – Iconic Entertainers Known as the Kessler Twins
What We Know About the Kessler Twins Death – Joint Assisted Passing
BERLIN / MUNICH — Legendary German twin entertainers Alice Kessler and Ellen Kessler, popularly known as the Kessler Twins, have died at the age of 89. The pair passed away together on 17 November 2025 in their home in Grünwald, near Munich, Germany, in what authorities have described as a “joint assisted suicide.”
A Union Until the End: The Kessler Twins Death
German police and the German Society for Humane Dying (DGHS) confirmed that Alice and Ellen Kessler made a deliberate and joint choice to end their lives, fulfilling a pact they had discussed for years. The twins had lived together, alternately performed together, and shared virtually every aspect of life, including the decision to depart together.
Spotlight on Their Legendary Career as the Kessler Twins
Born on 20 August 1936 in Nerchau, Saxony (then Nazi Germany), Alice and Ellen began ballet training early and joined the Leipzig Opera children’s ballet. In 1952 their family fled from East Germany to the West.
They were discovered in Paris in 1955 and rose to international fame in the 1950s and 60s — performing with luminaries such as Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, and Harry Belafonte. In Italy they became enormously popular and were dubbed “le gemelle Kessler.” Their synchronized dance, dazzling costumes and twin-identity became cultural icons.
Behind the Scenes of Their Shared Choice: Understanding the Kessler Twins Death
While detailed medical reports have not been released, German outlets report that the twins arranged medically-assisted dying, a legal process in Germany under certain conditions. Authorities ruled out foul play; the sisters had reportedly planned the decision for some time. The DGHS spokeperson said the choice was “long-standing” and made freely by the sisters.
In interviews earlier they expressed the deep fear of one twin outliving the other and desired to be buried together in the same urn.
Legacy of the Kessler Twins – Why They Remain Cultural Icons
The twin sisters were among the first European dancers to break into international entertainment markets post-WWII.
They refused an Hollywood offer (with Elvis Presley) in 1964 to avoid being type-cast—showing early savvy in controlling their image.
They continued performing into their 80s, maintaining the mantra that their strength lay in their unity: “Together you’re stronger.”
What This Means & Why It Matters
The death of the Kessler twins is significant on multiple fronts:
From an entertainment history view, the duo exemplified post-war European show business ascension, glamorous stage presence, and global crossover success.
Their decision to pass together highlights complex themes around autonomy, aging, companionship and end-of-life choices.
Their enduring brand—“the Kessler twins”—remains embedded in pop culture across Germany, Italy and beyond.
