Karissa and Kristina Shannon, former Playboy twins, are speaking out about the trauma they faced living in Hugh Hefner’s mansion as teenagers. Moving into the Playboy Mansion at 19, they quickly discovered the harsh reality behind the luxurious image. “It was such a culture shock for us,” Karissa recalled, while Kristina added, “We were literally just teenagers… all natural,” unlike many of the other Playmates.
Despite rising to fame on The Girls Next Door and making history as the first twins to each have a Playboy cover month, they endured jealousy and a toxic environment. Kristina emphasized, “What they show on TV was 100 percent different from what was going on behind the scenes.”
Though they remain appreciative of some high points, Karissa admitted, “Even though it turned out to be very traumatic for us, there were also a lot of high points.” Seeking healing, the sisters eventually sold their business, left Los Angeles, and returned home to rebuild a simpler, healthier life.
