When David Kellman, Bobby Shafran, and Eddy Galland were reunited at the age of 19, they were astonished to discover the striking similarities in their lives. Separated at birth, they each grew up with a love for Marlboro cigarettes, wrestling, and the same type of women. The initial joy of finding each other quickly turned into a complex web of emotions as they delved deeper into their shared past. The documentary "Three Identical Strangers" captures their journey from joyous reunion to the haunting revelations that followed.
As the brothers navigated adulthood, they uncovered disturbing truths about their childhood that left them grappling with feelings of betrayal and anger. They learned that they had been part of a controversial psychological study that manipulated their lives without their consent. This shocking revelation has not only shaped their identities but also sparked discussions about ethics in psychological research.
The film, directed by Tim Wardle, highlights not only their remarkable bond but also the tragic events that transpired in their lives, including the untimely death of Galland. The brothers have since dedicated their efforts to raising awareness about their story, seeking justice and closure from a past filled with unanswered questions and painful memories. Their tale serves as a reminder of the complexities of nature versus nurture and the profound impact that our beginnings can have on our lives.
| Name | Date of Birth | Occupation | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Kellman | Unknown | Insurance Agent | Reunited with brothers at age 19, part of psychological study |
| Bobby Shafran | Unknown | Lawyer | Reunited with brothers at age 19, part of psychological study |
| Eddy Galland | Unknown | Unknown | Reunited with brothers at age 19, died by suicide in 1995 |
Table of Contents
- The Reunion of the Triplets
- Shared Experiences and Discoveries
- The Controversial Psychological Study
- Emotional Impact on the Brothers
- The Legacy of Their Story
The Reunion of the Triplets
In 1980, David Kellman, Bobby Shafran, and Eddy Galland's lives changed forever when they discovered each other by coincidence. This astonishing reunion sparked a media frenzy, capturing the hearts of the public. The brothers quickly became media darlings, appearing on television shows and sharing their incredible story with the world.
They wore matching outfits, shared stories of their childhoods, and formed a bond that felt almost supernatural. Their connection was so strong that it was as though they had never been apart. This initial joy, however, concealed the deeper complexities of their shared past.
Shared Experiences and Discoveries
As the brothers spent time together, they uncovered startling similarities in their lives. From their tastes in food and clothing to their shared experiences of vision problems, it became clear that their lives were intertwined in ways they could not have imagined. However, the joy of these discoveries was overshadowed by the unsettling realization that they had been raised in completely different environments.
Despite their differences, the three brothers shared a strong familial bond that transcended their separate upbringings. They learned about each other's families, interests, and experiences, which only fueled their desire to understand the circumstances of their separation.
The Controversial Psychological Study
As the brothers delved deeper into their past, they learned they were unwitting participants in a controversial psychological study orchestrated by Dr. Peter Neubauer. This study aimed to explore the effects of nature versus nurture by placing twins and triplets in different home environments and tracking their development without their knowledge.
This shocking revelation left the brothers grappling with feelings of betrayal. They were not just siblings; they were subjects in an experiment that disregarded their humanity. The ethical implications of such a study have sparked ongoing debates about the treatment of research subjects, particularly those unable to give informed consent.
Emotional Impact on the Brothers
The emotional toll of discovering their roles in the study was immense. Bobby Shafran articulated the difference between being a subject and being a victim, emphasizing the trauma they endured as a result of the study's revelations. The brothers expressed their anger and frustration at being treated like laboratory rats rather than human beings with lives and feelings.
Despite their struggles, the brothers have worked to forge a positive path forward, focusing on their relationships with each other and their families. Their shared experiences have deepened their bond, providing them with a sense of purpose as they advocate for awareness and change.
The Legacy of Their Story
Today, the story of David, Bobby, and Eddy serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the ethical responsibilities of researchers. Their journey has sparked important conversations about the boundaries of psychological research and the need for informed consent.
Their experience has also inspired those who feel disconnected from their origins to seek understanding and closure. The brothers continue to share their story, not just to raise awareness but to ensure that no one else has to endure the same pain and confusion that they faced.
