Ricky Nelson’s twin sons, Matthew and Gunnar aged well at 55, despite not having the same life that many believed they had after their father’s death. Ricky Nelson, a successful recording artist, had twin sons. They followed in his musical path and formed the band. They achieved fame in the early ’90s, thanks to MTV.

In January 2023, Matthew and Gunnar shared a video on Instagram, showing their musical talents and receiving applauses from fans who noted their resemblance to their father. The twins, now married, continue to be active in the music scene. Matthew is a father to a son named Ozzie, while Gunnar resides in Nashville with his wife and her three daughters.

Actor and singer Ricky Nelson posing for a photo on May 17, 1958 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Despite their musical success, the twins faced challenges in their personal lives. After their father’s passing away, their mother, actress Kristin Nelson, was unsupportive of their musical careers. They struggled with their relationship with their mother and also had to deal with the financial problems left behind by their father.

Musicians Gunnar Nelson and Matthew Nelson attend the taping of the television show “Into the Night with Rick Dees” at ABC Television Studios on January 7, 1990 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Matthew and Gunnar worked hard to establish themselves in the music industry, defying the expectations set by their family legacy. They have faced criticism for not conforming to Hollywood standards and have spent years paying off their father’s debts. However, they have persevered and continue to create music outside of the spotlight.

Matthew, who said his mother “liked vodka,” brought light playing music was hard for him and Gunnar, who described her as a “narcissist.” He said:

“Our mother made it very difficult for us to play music. She said we always reminded her of [Rick], and the business was horrible, and it was ‘going to take you down.’”

The Nelson twins’ journey has been marked by challenges, but they have managed to carve out their own path in the music industry, showcasing their talent and resilience along the way. Ricky Nelson played a crucial role in saving his twins’ lives. On the day of his tragic death in a plane crash, Matthew and Gunnar were initially supposed to be on the aircraft with their father and his band members. However, Ricky had a sudden change of heart and advised them to meet him in Alabama and travel to Dallas together for his show.

However, one fan asked, “These guys are still alive? Wow, who knew,” while one other social media user commented, “Had no idea you all were still there.”

A fan’s comment on the Nelson brothers’ social media upload | Source: Instagram/nelson_band
Fans’ comments on the Nelson brothers’ social media upload | Source: Instagram/nelson_band
A fan’s comment on the Nelson brothers’ social media upload | Source: Instagram/nelson_band
A fan’s comment on the Nelson brothers’ social media upload | Source: Instagram/nelson_band

Ricky’s intuition proved to be a lifesaver, as he called his sons again and insisted that they fly separately to Dallas. If they had been on the plane, they would have suffered the same fate. This decision, guided by Ricky’s instincts, spared Matthew and Gunnar from the tragedy.

Losing their father at such a young age, along with the subsequent challenges they faced, including their strained relationship with their mother, shaped Matthew and Gunnar into the resilient individuals they are today. Despite the hardships, they have found strength and resilience, carrying their father’s legacy while also forging their own path.