KISS bassist Gene Simmons recently addressed public misconceptions about his wealth and shared reflections on fellow rock icon Ozzy Osbourne during an appearance on Fail Better With David Duchovny.
Simmons clarified that public perceptions of his financial status are often exaggerated. He also discussed the importance of staying humble in the music industry.
“People think I’m much richer than I actually am. I mean, I’ve done okay, but [they say], ‘Oh, you must have billions.’ No, I don’t,” Simmons said. “It’s just that thing. And I like that thing because it means you might not be hurt as much, ’cause there are a lot of people who are out to get you, because they have empty lives; I don’t know why.”
The KISS frontman then shifted to discussing the value of humility and his admiration for Ozzy Osbourne.
“But humbling — it’s important for people like yours truly… It is important to meet somebody like Ozzy, who is just himself, whether — now, of course, when he gets up on stage, it’s more like scream therapy,” he continued. “You get out there and it’s just all energy coming, but strangely, the real Ozzy — he’s supposed to be the Prince Of Darkness, and yet in the shows he blows kisses to the fans and goes, ‘I love you.’ If you were the Prince Of Darkness, that’s like anti — that’s kind of like a good guy. He was a giant.”
While Simmons downplays his wealth, his financial success tells a different story. Finance Monthly reported that Simmons has an estimated net worth of around $400 million as of 2025.
The KISS bassist’s fortune extends far beyond his music career. Parade noted that KISS’s lucrative licensing deals have generated over $1 billion since the 1970s through merchandise including pinball machines, lunch boxes, and comic books. This merchandising empire has been a cornerstone of Simmons’ business strategy throughout his career.
Simmons has diversified his investments across multiple industries. Celebrity Net Worth revealed that his business ventures include co-owning restaurants and operating a record label. These ventures have contributed significantly to his overall wealth beyond his musical achievements.
The rock legend’s approach to wealth management reflects his pragmatic business mindset. His comments about public perceptions suggest a deliberate strategy to maintain privacy around his financial affairs. This may serve as protection against those who might target wealthy celebrities.
The comments provide insight into both Simmons’ perspective on fame and wealth, as well as his respect for Osbourne’s authentic stage presence. Simmons’ reflection also underscores his belief that despite substantial financial success, humility remains essential in the competitive entertainment industry.
