KISS frontman Gene Simmons recently made controversial remarks about Generation Z, criticizing what he perceives as their sense of entitlement in comments shared on The HoneyDew Podcast.
The rock legend’s statements focused on work ethic and generational attitudes toward earning money and benefits.
“Neither [my son] Nick nor [my daughter] Sophie ever got — what is it called? — allowances, where you give your kids money for nothing,” Simmons said. “No. You want money? You’ve gotta do something. Do this. I don’t know — mow the lawn, clean this, do that. Then you understand the value of it. And then you don’t have to say ‘thank you’. You don’t owe anybody money.”
Simmons continued his critique by targeting what he called the “entitled generation.”
“The love of labor… If you can get that into the thick skulls of — what’s the new generation? Generation X? What is it? … Generation fucked up,” he said. “The entitled generation. ‘Cause if you go through your whole life getting your palm greased, which used to mean you get money for nothing, when you turn 18 or 20, whenever it is that you’re on your own, you get entitled: ‘Hey, I deserve healthcare.’ No, actually, you don’t. ‘I deserve free living.’”
The comments were made during his appearance on HoneyDew Podcast #347.
These remarks align with Simmons’ long-standing philosophy about wealth and work ethic. This philosophy has shaped both his business approach and parenting style throughout his career.
WJRZ reported that Simmons has previously expressed a blunt view on wealth, stating “It’s better to be rich than poor; it really is.” He made this statement while promoting a high-priced fan package offering an expensive day-long shadowing experience as his personal assistant. This underscores his broader belief in earning money through effort rather than entitlement.
The KISS bassist’s attitudes toward work and success stem from his personal immigrant experience. Mike Rowe’s podcast revealed that Simmons has discussed how he learned the importance of hard work and fitting in after immigrating to America. He emphasized that success means earning your own money and doing well. This personal history has clearly shaped his critical view of what he perceives as generational entitlement.
Despite his harsh criticism of younger generations, Simmons’ approach reflects a consistent philosophy that has guided his parenting and business decisions. His refusal to give his children allowances without work demonstrates how he has applied these principles within his own family. He views financial support without effort as counterproductive to developing strong work ethics.
The controversial comments have sparked debate about generational differences in attitudes toward work, benefits, and social support systems. Simmons has positioned himself firmly on the side of earned rewards rather than guaranteed entitlements.
