Playboy Twins Fear Meeting Same Fate as Anna Nicole Smith After Lives Crumbled from Traumatic Year in Hugh Hefner’s Mansion

Shannon Twins Reveal Trauma and Struggles at Playboy Mansion

Former Playboy Playmates Karissa and Kristina Shannon, now 35, opened up about their harrowing experiences during their 18-month stay at Hugh Hefner’s mansion in a candid interview with People Magazine—their first in six years. The twins, who moved into the mansion at age 19 in 2008, detailed their struggles with bullying, health crises, and a "cult-like" environment they likened to an "Anna Nicole Smith phase."

A World of Bullying and Isolation
The twins, featured in the 2022 documentary Secrets of Playboy, revealed they faced intense jealousy from other Playmates due to their youth and unique status as twins. "We were the first twins to each get our own Playboy month, making history as the youngest Playmates and girlfriends," Kristina explained. This led to ostracization, with Karissa recalling Hefner’s preferential treatment: "He’d ask us to sit closer to him, which fueled resentment." The isolation worsened as they were barred from socializing outside the mansion, deepening their emotional turmoil.

Health Struggles and the "Anna Nicole Phase"
Post-mansion life brought severe challenges. The twins contracted chlamydia, and Karissa underwent a secret abortion after becoming pregnant by Hefner. They spiraled into substance abuse, comparing their struggles to Anna Nicole Smith’s tragic decline. "We gained weight, abused alcohol and pills, and felt suicidal. We were lost," Kristina admitted. A 2014 DUI arrest after a car crash marked a low point, pushing them to seek help.

Escaping the "Cult-Like" Environment
The twins described the mansion as a controlling environment. "It’s like a cult. You lose yourself," Kristina said. Karissa likened their experiences with Hefner to "assault," revealing they were pressured into a threesome on their 19th birthday. "Every time felt like rape. I’m grateful I had the abortion," she stated.

Rebuilding in Michigan
Leaving Los Angeles for Michigan became their turning point. "Michigan changed us. We found peace," Kristina shared. Therapy helped them address PTSD, though Karissa noted, "The trauma will always linger." Now focused on healing, they emphasize self-care: "We’re protecting our peace and staying grounded with faith."

Their story highlights the dark side of the Playboy legacy, underscoring resilience amid exploitation.

[Images: 1) Shannon twins in 2022 documentary; 2) Hefner with Playmates in 2009; 3) Twins in Michigan; 4) Anna Nicole Smith in 2005]

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