Abby and Brittany Hensel first captured national attention due to their rare medical condition as conjoined twins. Born on March 7, 1990, in Minnesota, they have lived their lives defying expectations and proving that they can lead fulfilling, independent lives despite their unique situation.
Their journey was first introduced to the public on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 1996, where audiences were amazed at their ability to coordinate movements seamlessly. In 2012, TLC aired Abby & Brittany, a reality series that followed their experiences as they graduated from college, traveled the world, and embarked on their teaching careers.
Today, more than a decade after their show ended, Abby and Brittany continue to thrive as educators, while Abby has also started a new chapter in her personal life. So, where are they now? Let’s take a closer look at their inspiring journey.
Who Are Abby and Brittany Hensel?
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Abby and Brittany Hensel are dicephalic parapagus twins, meaning they share one body but have two separate heads, hearts, and distinct personalities. They each control one side of their body—Abby on the right and Brittany on the left—requiring exceptional coordination for daily activities.
Raised in Minnesota by their parents, Patty and Mike Hensel, they were presented with the option of surgical separation at birth. However, doctors warned that the procedure had a low chance of survival for both twins. Their parents ultimately decided against the operation, choosing instead to support them in living as conjoined twins.
Despite their physical challenges, Abby and Brittany learned to coordinate movements to walk, write, play sports, drive a car, and even use a smartphone. Their determination has been a testament to their resilience and ability to adapt.
When Did Abby and Brittany Hensel Start Sharing Their Story?
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Abby and Brittany first stepped into the media spotlight in 1996 when they appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Their story fascinated viewers, as they were among the rarest sets of conjoined twins in the world who were able to lead an active and independent lifestyle.
Their inspiring journey was further documented in the 2008 documentary Joined for Life: Abby & Brittany Turn 16, which provided a closer look into their teenage years. However, it was TLC’s Abby & Brittany reality show in 2012 that gave audiences an in-depth perspective of their daily lives.
The series followed the twins as they navigated young adulthood—attending Bethel University, traveling through Europe, and starting their careers as teachers. “People have been curious about us since we were born, for obvious reasons,” they said in the show’s premiere episode. “But our parents never let us use that as an excuse. We were raised to believe we could do anything we wanted to do.”
Their show lasted for one season, consisting of eight episodes, but their impact on audiences remained strong.
Abby Hensel’s Marriage and Personal Life
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In 2024, Abby Hensel made headlines when she revealed that she had married Josh Bowling, a nurse and Army veteran, three years earlier in November 2021. The news sparked widespread interest, as many were unaware of her marital status before the announcement.
The twins shared glimpses of Abby’s wedding on social media, including footage of their first dance with Bowling. However, the online reaction was mixed. Some viewers expressed joy for Abby, while others questioned how marriage works for conjoined twins. In response to the heightened online attention, Abby and Brittany posted a TikTok video addressing the situation with the caption, “The internet is extra LOUD today.”
After her wedding, Abby also took on the role of stepmother to Bowling’s daughter from his previous marriage. While Abby’s marital status is public, Brittany has kept her personal relationships private.
Where Are Abby and Brittany Hensel Now?
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Today, Abby and Brittany continue to lead fulfilling lives as educators. According to public records, they live in Minnesota and work as fifth-grade teachers at a local school. Despite sharing one body, the twins receive separate teaching contracts and split their pay equally.
In an episode of Abby & Brittany, the twins discussed their strengths in different subjects: “Abby’s strong points are math and science, while Brittany is more focused on language arts and reading.” Their collaborative teaching style allows them to leverage each other’s strengths in the classroom.
Outside of their teaching careers, the twins maintain a relatively private lifestyle, occasionally sharing glimpses of their lives on TikTok, where they have amassed over 300,000 followers. Their content often includes everyday activities, travel adventures, and messages addressing public curiosity about their lives.
Although their time in the public spotlight has decreased, Abby’s marriage announcement in 2024 reignited interest in their story, bringing them back into media discussions.
The Hensel Twins’ Legacy and Impact
Abby and Brittany’s journey continues to inspire many people around the world. Their story highlights the power of resilience, determination, and a positive outlook on life. From overcoming physical challenges to proving that they can achieve their dreams, they have become symbols of perseverance.
Their ability to navigate life as conjoined twins while maintaining individuality and personal ambitions sets them apart as role models. Their teaching career also allows them to impact young minds daily, demonstrating that they are just as capable as any other educators in shaping the future.
Final Thoughts
More than a decade after their reality show ended, Abby and Brittany Hensel continue to lead inspiring lives as teachers, role models, and individuals who defy expectations. Abby’s marriage announcement in 2024 brought renewed public attention to their story, but their core values remain the same—they strive to live fulfilling, independent lives on their own terms.
While the twins maintain a relatively private lifestyle, their journey remains an extraordinary example of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of embracing uniqueness. Whether through their careers, personal milestones, or their ability to challenge societal perceptions, Abby and Brittany continue to inspire people around the world.
