News : Gene Simmons “Humbly Apologises” For Remarks About Ace Frehley

Gene Simmons has publicly apologised after facing criticism for remarks he made following the death of Ace Frehley.

Frehley, who was the original lead guitarist of KISS, passed away at the age of 74 in October.

In the weeks leading up to his death, the musician had been placed on life support and required a ventilator after suffering a brain bleed caused by a fall at his home the month before.

After Frehley died, Simmons suggested during an interview with The New York Post that his former bandmate’s passing was the result of a pattern of “poor choices”.

Once the comments began to circulate widely, the KISS frontman took to X on Wednesday to acknowledge that he had made a mistake.

“After thinking about it, I was wrong in the way I expressed myself and I sincerely apologise,” the singer, aged 76, wrote. “Hand on my heart, I never meant to hurt Ace or diminish his legacy, but rereading what I said made it clear why people were upset. I am truly sorry. I have always loved Ace and always will.”

Over the weekend, KISS were honoured at the annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in Washington, D.C.

While speaking with People on the red carpet, KISS founders Paul Stanley and Peter Criss reflected on Frehley’s lasting impact.

“We can be here recognising what we achieved while also grieving his loss. Both emotions can exist together,” Stanley said. “He is here in spirit. He was very excited to attend, and I genuinely feel his presence.”

During a presentation hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Saturday, Monique Frehley accepted the Kennedy Center Honors medal on behalf of her late father.