Gene Simmons, the iconic member of the rock band Kiss, was recently involved in a car accident in Malibu, California. The 76-year-old musician reportedly lost consciousness while driving his SUV and collided with a parked vehicle on the Pacific Coast Highway. Following the incident, Simmons was taken to a local hospital for treatment and is now recuperating at home.
According to a spokesperson from the Sheriff’s Department, the accident occurred in the 25600 block of the Pacific Coast Highway just before 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7. The vehicle involved was a black Lincoln Navigator, which reportedly crossed several lanes of traffic before hitting a parked car. The spokesperson did not confirm the identity of the driver but indicated that the individual may have experienced a medical emergency prior to the crash.
Simmons’ wife, Shannon Tweed, confirmed to media outlets that her husband was the driver involved in the accident. She also revealed that Simmons’ medication had recently been adjusted by his doctors. The couple has not provided further details about the nature of Simmons’ medical condition.
This incident comes as another blow to the Kiss band, as co-founder and former guitarist Ace Frehley recently canceled the remaining dates of his 2025 tour due to health issues. Frehley, 74, was hospitalized following a fall in his studio, leading to the cancellation of his tour.
Despite these setbacks, the band is preparing for a reunion next month to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The event, dubbed Kiss Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas, is scheduled to take place from Nov. 14-16 in Las Vegas. This will be the band’s first performance since they announced their retirement from touring in 2023.
Paul Stanley, another founding member of Kiss, spoke about the upcoming reunion on Joel Madden’s “Artist Friendly” podcast in July. He emphasized the band’s appreciation for their fans and their excitement about the upcoming event. Although the band initially planned a cruise for the reunion, logistical issues led them to opt for a land-based event at the Virgin Hotel in Las Vegas.