Gene Simmons Thanks Kiss Fans for ‘Kind Wishes’ as He Recovers From Car Accident: ‘It Happens. Especially to Those of Us’ Who Are ‘Horrible Drivers’

Gene Simmons, the bassist and co-founder of the legendary rock band Kiss, is recuperating after a minor traffic accident in Malibu. The 76-year-old musician was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday and later reassured his fans about his condition. "Thank you all for the kind words. I'm perfectly okay," he posted on the social media platform X. "I was in a small fender bender. It occurs, particularly to terrible drivers like myself. Everything is fine."

According to reports from the Associated Press, Simmons momentarily lost consciousness while driving his SUV on the Pacific Coast Highway. His vehicle subsequently veered across multiple lanes before colliding with a parked car. His wife, Shannon Tweed, suggested to NBC4 that a recent change to his prescription medication, combined with possible dehydration, may have been responsible for the fainting episode. This highlights a broader safety concern, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has documented that medication-related impairment is a significant factor in many traffic incidents, particularly for older drivers.

The incident comes after Kiss concluded its monumental final tour in 2023, ending five decades of live performances. Formed in New York City in 1973, the band became iconic for its dramatic face paint and pyrotechnic-heavy shows, selling over 100 million records worldwide and profoundly influencing the arena rock genre. Their legacy is a testament to their ability to merge music with spectacular visual entertainment.

Even in retirement from touring, the band's influence continues to be celebrated. This year, Kiss will receive one of the nation's top artistic accolades at the Kennedy Center Honors. The annual ceremony, which for the first time will be chaired by President Trump following his replacement of 18 Democratic board appointees, will also honor singer George Strait, actor Michael Crawford, disco icon Gloria Gaynor, and actor Sylvester Stallone. Commenting on the honor, bandmate Paul Stanley told TMZ, "This recognition underscores the American belief that anything is achievable through dedication. I accept this prestigious award on behalf of Kiss's enduring legacy and every member who contributed to our iconic journey."