The music world was left in shock on October 8, 2025, after news broke that Gene Simmons, the 76-year-old co-founder and bassist of the legendary rock band KISS, had been involved in a serious car accident in Malibu. Reports revealed that Simmons had lost consciousness while driving his SUV along the Pacific Coast Highway, causing his vehicle to swerve across multiple lanes before colliding with a parked car. Thankfully, no one was injured, and the rock icon is now recovering at home. Still, the cause behind the frightening incident left many fans deeply concerned about his health.
According to NBC4 Los Angeles, the crash took place on October 7, when Simmons was driving his Lincoln Navigator and suddenly fainted behind the wheel. His wife, Shannon Tweed, later revealed to TMZ that the incident was caused by a combination of dehydration and the side effects of new medication. She explained that Gene has a long-standing aversion to drinking water, saying, “Gene hates to drink water,” and that his failure to stay hydrated, compounded by the effects of his medicine, caused him to lose consciousness while driving.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after a witness called 911. Simmons was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation, where he confirmed to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department that he had fainted before the collision. After undergoing several tests, he was discharged and is now recuperating at home with his wife by his side. Reassuring his fans on social media, Simmons wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Thanks, everybody, for the kind wishes. I’m completely fine. I had a slight fender bender. It happens, especially to those of us who are horrible drivers. And that’s me. All is well.”
Following the incident, speculation circulated online suggesting that Simmons might have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, law enforcement authorities quickly clarified that no evidence of intoxication was found at the scene. Shannon also emphasized that the accident was purely medical in nature, not related to substance use. For decades, Gene has been outspoken about maintaining a clean lifestyle, proudly abstaining from alcohol, drugs, and smoking. In a past interview with USA Today, he said, “You see my hand? It does not shake, and I’m 75. Kids, don’t do drugs and booze, and stop smoking.”
Born in Haifa, Israel, in 1949, Gene Simmons moved to the United States as a child and went on to become one of rock’s most iconic figures. As the co-founder, bassist, and co-lead vocalist of KISS, he helped revolutionize the rock industry with the band’s theatrical performances, elaborate costumes, and unforgettable stage presence. After nearly five decades, KISS officially retired in 2023, concluding one of the most successful and enduring careers in rock history.
Outside of music, Simmons is a successful businessman, author, and television personality, known for his hit reality show “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” which aired from 2006 to 2012. He met his longtime partner, Shannon Tweed, a former Playboy Playmate, in 1983, and the two married in 2011 after 28 years together. They share two children — Nick, born in 1989, and Sophie, born in 1992.
Although the crash was alarming, fans have expressed relief that Gene Simmons is safe and recovering. Known for his resilience and humor, the rock legend seems determined to take the incident in stride — just another wild chapter in the life of one of music’s most larger-than-life personalities.