Alice and Ellen Kessler — known worldwide as the Kessler Twins — were two of the most iconic performers in European entertainment history. With their incredible talent, elegance, and lifelong bond, they captured the hearts of millions. Their recent passing at the age of 89, together and by choice, has brought their remarkable story back into global conversation.
From ballet prodigies to international stars, here is the complete life story, legacy, and final chapter of Alice and Ellen Kessler.
Who is Alice Kessler?
Alice Kessler was one half of the legendary German twin duo. Born on August 20, 1936, in Saxony, Germany, Alice was known for her poise, grace, and refined stage presence.
She began ballet training at a young age and eventually rose to fame alongside her twin sister, Ellen.
Alice’s elegant performances and calm personality made her an unforgettable figure in European pop culture.
Who is Ellen Kessler?
Ellen Kessler, Alice’s identical twin, shared the same passion for dance, performance, and the entertainment industry. Energetic and lively, Ellen was often seen as the more spirited twin — perfectly balancing Alice’s calm nature.
Together, the Kessler Twins became cultural icons across Germany, Italy, France, and the United States.
Were the Kessler Twins Ever Married?
A commonly asked question is: “Did the Kessler twins marry?”
The answer is No — the Kessler Twins never married.
They had long-term relationships in their younger years but chose independence and career over traditional marriage. Their deep sisterly bond also influenced their decision.
Known relationships:
- Ellen: 20-year relationship with Italian actor Umberto Orsini
- Alice: Relationships with Marcel Amont (French singer) and Enrico Maria Salerno (Italian actor)
They once mentioned that their parents’ troubled marriage also shaped their views on relationships.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Childhood & Ballet Beginnings
Alice and Ellen were born in Nerchau, Saxony. They began ballet lessons at the age of six and joined the Leipzig Opera’s children’s ballet group at eleven.
Escape to West Germany
In 1952, at age 16, their family fled East Germany using visitor visas — a turning point that opened doors to international fame.
Early Career in West Germany & Paris
After resettling, they performed in Düsseldorf before being discovered by the director of the Lido cabaret in Paris in 1955. They later joined the famous Bluebell Girls troupe and refined their signature dance-and-singing act.
Eurovision Fame
In 1959, they represented West Germany in Eurovision, finishing 8th.
Italian Television Superstars
By the 1960s, they became huge stars in Italy, especially through the variety show Studio Uno. Their “Da-da-un-pa” number became a cultural phenomenon.
International Recognition
- Performed on The Red Skelton Hour
- Performed on The Ed Sullivan Show
- Featured on the Life magazine cover (1963)
- Acted in films including Sodom and Gomorrah (1962)
A Bold Reinvention
At age 40, they posed for Italian Playboy, breaking sales records.
Alice and Ellen Kessler's Cause of Death
On 17 November 2025, Alice and Ellen Kessler passed away together in Munich.
Cause of Death:
The twins chose medically assisted death (assisted suicide) under German law.
Authorities confirmed that their decision was:
- Peaceful
- Legally supervised
- Planned over a long period
- Made together, willingly
Reports suggest that Ellen had suffered an ischemic stroke weeks before, which influenced their final decision.
They had also expressed a wish to be together in life and in death. Their ashes were placed together in one urn, along with the ashes of their mother and their dog, Yello.
Facts about Kessler Twins - Alice and Ellen Kessler
- The Kessler Twins were 89 years old at the time of their passing in November 2025.
- Born in 1936, they remained active in the entertainment industry for more than 70 years, an extraordinary achievement.
- When people talk about famous German twins, the first names that come to mind are Alice and Ellen Kessler.
- They lived in side-by-side apartments in Grünwald, near Munich — separated only by a sliding wall.
- Their combined net worth is estimated between €1 million €5 million.
- Their income came from: TV shows, Stage performances, Music and film careers, International tours, and Long-term contracts in Germany & Italy.
- Alice and Ellen Kessler changed the landscape of European entertainment with: synchronised dance style, International versatility, Glamorous yet disciplined work ethic, and A powerful message of sisterly love.
The story of Alice and Ellen Kessler is more than a biography — it is a testament to love, discipline, and artistic passion.
From their early ballet days to global stardom, and finally their peaceful, united passing, the Kessler Twins remain unforgettable figures in cultural history.
