What's happened
The Kessler twins, renowned performers from the 1950s, died in Munich at age 89. Confirmed as a joint suicide, they shared a house in Grünwald. Their careers spanned Europe and the US, with notable success in Italy. Their deaths mark the end of an era.
What's behind the headline?
The twins' deaths highlight the enduring bond of sibling partnership in show business, emphasizing their shared identity and mutual support. Their decision to end their lives together, reportedly after Ellen’s recent stroke, underscores the profound connection they maintained. This story also reflects on the pressures of aging in the entertainment industry and the personal toll of long-term fame. The confirmation of a joint suicide in a wealthy Munich suburb raises questions about mental health among aging performers, especially those who have lived in the public eye for decades. Their legacy as pioneers of European television and pop culture remains significant, but their final act prompts reflection on the importance of mental health support for elderly artists.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that the twins' deaths were confirmed as a joint suicide, with their long careers spanning Europe and the US. The Independent notes their early escape from East Germany and their rise to fame in Italy, highlighting their groundbreaking TV appearances. AP News emphasizes their lifelong partnership and the circumstances of their death in Grünwald, a wealthy Munich suburb. Contrasting perspectives from these sources underscore the twins' cultural impact and the tragic end of their lives, prompting discussions on mental health and aging in the entertainment industry.
How we got here
The Kessler twins, born in Leipzig, fled East Germany in 1952 to pursue dance and performance careers in West Germany. Discovered in Paris in 1955, they gained international fame through performances with top entertainers like Sinatra and Astaire. They moved to Italy in 1961, where they became cultural icons, especially for their risqué TV appearances. Their careers lasted decades, and they remained close until their deaths.
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