Victoria’s Secret model Ali Tate Cutler recently opened up about why she chose to document the final days of her 85-year-old grandmother, who decided to end her life through euthanasia. The deeply personal decision was shared through a series of TikTok videos, sparking an emotional and polarizing conversation online.
Cutler’s grandmother, affectionately called Bubbie, lived in Canada, where euthanasia has been legal for adults under specific conditions since 2016. After being diagnosed with terminal cancer, Bubbie made the choice to end her suffering on her own terms. In her first video, which has garnered significant attention, Cutler explained her grandmother’s decision and shared tender moments, such as playing games together.
“Bubbie has entered her final chapter in life,” Cutler wrote, adding, “After her terminal cancer diagnosis, she is choosing to be euthanized in Canada.” In the caption, she reflected on life’s inevitable end, stating: “No one gets out of this life alive. The best way to honor life is to be aware of death. Love to your elders and those who came before us.”
One of the videos, viewed over 12 million times, shows Cutler and Bubbie participating in a TikTok trend before heading to dinner. “My grandmother has chosen euthanasia for her terminal diagnosis, so this is the last time I can take her out to dinner,” she wrote. Though overwhelmed with emotions, her focus was on making Bubbie’s final week unforgettable.
Speaking to The Independent, Cutler revealed that her grandmother had long been a proponent of euthanasia. When faced with only six months to live, even with chemotherapy, Bubbie felt strongly about departing life on her own terms. “She didn’t want to suffer in her final moments,” Cutler said. The family, initially unsure about euthanasia, ultimately supported her choice, believing in “body sovereignty and autonomy.”
Cutler acknowledged how challenging it was to spend time with Bubbie, knowing these were their last moments together. “These last four days have been so hard,” she admitted in a tearful video. “I’m trying to stay positive for my Bubbie, but I can’t handle that I’m about to say goodbye forever at the airport tomorrow.” Despite the heartbreak, she found solace in their honest conversations about death, describing them as “beautiful and healing.”
Sharing these moments on TikTok was less about advocating for euthanasia and more about showcasing the dignity in Bubbie’s choice. “It was awe-inspiring to watch someone take control of their exit with grace and sovereign choice,” Cutler said. She also hoped to challenge the way people approach grief, emphasizing the importance of celebrating loved ones while they’re still alive.
In one video, Bubbie answered questions about euthanasia, describing the process in Canada. She explained how doctors ensure patients are making informed, voluntary decisions and outlined the medical steps involved. Bubbie’s calm demeanor and readiness were striking. “I’m looking forward to it,” she said, noting she wanted to avoid dependence or a lack of control as her illness progressed. She also shared her belief that her late husband was waiting to greet her on the other side.
These deeply personal videos sparked widespread reactions on TikTok. While many praised Cutler for her openness, others questioned the ethics of publicizing such an intimate decision. Responding to critics, Cutler explained: “Death is taboo and not discussed enough in the West. Sharing this journey brought 11 million people into a conversation about death—one of the most universal experiences.”
Reflecting on the polarized responses, Cutler noted that discomfort around death and euthanasia stems from societal fears of mortality and a lack of dialogue about end-of-life choices. “Highlighting these topics can evoke a primordial fear of what comes next, but it’s a conversation we need to have,” she said.
In their final video together, Cutler asked Bubbie for advice for younger generations. Her response was simple yet profound: “Laugh. Have fun. Love your family and friends. Be open, honest, and talk to each other. If you have love in your life, hold onto it because it’s precious.”
Cutler’s heartfelt documentation of her grandmother’s journey invites us all to reflect on how we approach death, grief, and the choices we make about our lives. It serves as a powerful reminder to cherish our loved ones and respect their decisions, no matter how difficult those choices might be.