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Carrie Ann Edwards Was Raised by Sister Shania Twain after Their Parents Death

In the world of country music, Shania Twain's name shines brightly. Behind her incredible success is a tale of sisterly devotion and resilience, with Carrie Ann Edwards playing a pivotal role in her famous sister's journey.

Shania Twain and her sister Carrie Ann Edwards' enduring bond has weathered life's ups and downs. Theirs is a story of sisterhood that has stood the test of time, from their shared struggles to Shania's rise to superstardom.

Carrie isn't just Shania's sister; she's also a pillar of unwavering support in the singer's life. Their connection goes far beyond blood ties, as she's not only been there emotionally but has also shared the stage with her sister.

Shania Twain and her sister Carrie Ann Edwards attend the ceremony honoring Shania Twain with a Star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame held on June 2, 2011, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Carrie Shares A Strong Connection With Her Sister

Carrie had the difficult task of calling Shania Twain to deliver devastating news that would change their lives forever. In 1987, tragedy struck their family in a fatal car accident involving their parents, Sharon Twain and Jerry Twain.

Shania, who was 22 then, recalled the profound shock and grief that gripped her in those days following the devastating news. After the tragic accident, she took on the monumental responsibility of caring for her three younger siblings, including Carrie.

Their two younger brothers were only 13 and 14 years old then. In the face of this tragedy, they decided not to be separated, as no other relatives could take both of them in. The only option was for them to stick together as a family.

She affectionately referred to Carrie and their brothers as her "kids" despite knowing they weren't biologically hers. Her eldest sister was preoccupied with her own family, leaving Shania to step into the role of caregiver—a role that wasn't entirely new to her. She said:

"I was already very much a mother figure in our house. My mother was depressed a lot of our lives, didn't get out of bed for days many times."

During a challenging period, Carrie's sister played a significant role as a guardian for her younger siblings. Mark, their younger brother who worked as a computer technician then, shared glimpses into Shania's role as the responsible older sister.

Shania Twain attends NBC's "America's Got Talent" Season 12 Finale held at Dolby Theatre on September 20, 2017, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Mark once described the musician as being "strict" when looking after them, explaining that fear motivated her to do it. Shania herself later elaborated on the immense responsibilities she had to shoulder in the wake of their parents' tragic accident.

In 2015, Carrie shared the stage with her sister at the latter's Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace, titled "Shania: Still the One."

Shania Twain at the 2023 CMT Music Awards held at Moody Center on April 2, 2023, in Austin, Texas. | Source: Getty Images

Carrie's Role In Her Sister's Music Superstardom

The Canadian musician has a strong connection with Carrie. In 2011, the sisters took a trip down memory lane by revisiting a fast food chain where they had previously worked.

Shania explained that their bond transcends sisterhood, as they share a deep musical connection from a young age. Carrie echoed this sentiment: "I need my sister, and my sister needs me."

Carrie has been excelling as a backup singer for her sister. In a Facebook video, she displayed her vocal talents as she joined her sibling during a practice session a few times. She also sang in the kitchen while her sister observed behind her.

In 2014, an avid fan captured a memorable moment when Carrie took the stage with her sibling. The renowned artist shared a touching detail: Carrie used to be skilled at playing musical instruments but had set it aside for years.

The acclaimed musician didn't just stop at acknowledging Carrie's musical past; she spoke highly of her sister, expressing how Carrie had been a constant source of support and courage through the years.

In 2015, Carrie shared the stage with her sister at the latter's Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace, titled "Shania: Still the One." The pop star welcomed Carrie onto the stage as an exceptional background vocalist in the show.

Shania Twain arrives for the ZFF Golden Icon Award ceremony and "Casino" screening during the 17th Zurich Film Festival at Kino Corso on September 25, 2021, in Zurich, Switzerland. | Source: Getty Images

Equally elegant and talented, Carrie brought her singing prowess to the stage and became an integral part of Shania's Vegas spectacle. Shania affectionately referred to her sister as a "beautiful singer."

Carrie's show of support was crucial for her famous sibling during the time when the latter was contemplating her massive Vegas residency. Returning to the stage after a significant hiatus was terrifying for her.

However, Carrie provided unwavering encouragement, assuring her sister she could do it. Inspired by her sister's commitment, the singer-songwriter suggested that they face this daunting task together.

Shania Twain attends the 2019 American Music Awards at Microsoft Theater on November 24, 2019, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Carrie Revels In Her Sister's Success

Carrie was present on a momentous day in her sister's life as Shania received a well-deserved honor—a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in June 2011 in Hollywood, California.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony celebrated the pop sensation's outstanding achievements in the world of music, and having Carrie present on such a prestigious occasion made it all the more meaningful for the iconic singer.

Besides her professional successes, Carrie's sister has been happily married to Frédéric Thiébaud since 2011. Together, they share a blended family: Johanna Thiebaud and Eja Lange. Johanna is Frédéric's daughter with ex-partner Marie Anne, while Eja's father is the singer's ex-husband Robert John Lange.

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Carisa Kissane

Update: 2024-05-19