It’s difficult enough being a 22 year old college student, but Abby and Brittany Hensel, identical, conjoined twins from Minneapolis, Minnesota, make it look easier than it should be. Their self-titled show aired September 28 on TLC, and if you’re turned off by the station’s questionable programming, such as Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, I can assure you, Abby & Brittany is a much more insightful watch.
Having done previous documentaries when they were 11 and 16, Abby and Brittany are far from camera shy. Their funny, quirky personalities, and everyday life experiences are what this show is all about.
The twins share one body; Brittany controls the left half, while Abby the right, and neither girl can feel the opposite side. Somehow they manage to be seamlessly in sync, coordinated, and are more than capable of driving, swimming and even typing out emails together without speaking. Sometimes, they even speak in unison, as if reading each other’s thoughts.
“They are the epitome of teamwork, love, and respect,” their college roommate, Carli Jo, said on the show. But don’t let that fool you. Although they share one body, they have two completely different personalities. Abby is loud and outspoken while Brittany is more laid back.
Aside from the obvious trait that makes these twins unique, the one thread strung throughout the first episode is just how normal these girls are. They live with roommates at college, attend parties, and argue over what to wear; sound familiar? They worry about what will happen after they graduate and whether or not they’ll get a job. Most important, however is that they never let their condition hold them back.
I can guarantee you’ll watch Abby & Brittany in awe; their story and the simple way they lead their everyday life is nothing short of amazing. A half-hour episode would never be able to answer all of my questions about these girls, which is why I’ll be hooked for the season. Abby and Brittany are not only interesting, but also inspiring, and it’s unbelievable to see how these young women live. As their roommate Erin rightfully stated in the first episode, “They’re by far the bravest girls I’ve ever met.”
Abby & Brittany airs at 10pm Tuesdays on TLC.
