Gene Simmons recently addressed criticism from a KISS fan regarding Ace Frehley’s final years. He shared his response on X (formerly Twitter).
The KISS bassist responded to a fan who suggested that the band could have invited Frehley and Peter Criss to their final shows. Simmons disputed this claim directly, stating that the invitations had already been extended.
The critic wrote, “You could have invited Ace and Peter to the last shows and made it happen, you didn’t. That’s on you.”
Simmons responded, “Here’s an example of why the word moron exists in the dictionary. This guy has no information and simply makes up his mind about things. Idiot,” Simmons said. “Fact: We invited both Ace and Peter to join us for the last shows. Both declined.”
Simmons’ response came in the context of his earlier tribute to Frehley following the guitarist’s passing. In that tribute, he praised Frehley’s legacy and his dedication to fans. The exchange highlights ongoing discussions within the KISS fanbase regarding the band’s final chapter and the circumstances surrounding its original members.
The tension between Gene Simmons and the original KISS members reflects deeper issues that have plagued the legendary rock band for years. Blabbermouth reported that Gene Simmons confirmed he repeatedly invited both Ace Frehley and Peter Criss to participate in KISS’s farewell concerts in December 2023. The final dates took place at Madison Square Garden in New York City, but both declined the offers.
The reasons behind Ace Frehley’s refusal were multifaceted. Arrow Lords of Metal revealed that Frehley’s camp did not want to participate in what they saw as a manufactured reunion or “feel-good photo op.” This represented a final act of defiance after longstanding tensions within the band. Financial considerations also played a role. Ace reportedly indicated he would consider coming if offered proper payment. He also had reservations about how he might be portrayed or included in the final shows.
Beyond the concert invitations, the divide extended to other collaborative efforts. Consequence noted that invitations extended for documentary participation were also declined by both Ace and Peter. Both refused unless they had full editorial control—a condition that was not possible. Despite the rejections, Simmons stated that the door was always open. He expressed a sense of unresolved feelings over the lack of reconciliation before Frehley’s passing.
The circumstances surrounding these declined invitations underscore the complex history between Simmons and the original members, particularly Frehley. He had been replaced by other performers behind his “Spaceman” persona for many years. The fan’s criticism and Simmons’ sharp response reflect the ongoing debate within the KISS community about responsibility, legacy, and the opportunities that were—or were not—extended during the band’s final chapter.
