The 76-year-old rock icon won't be performing for a while after a frightening incident on a California highway.

Kiss bassist Gene Simmons was hospitalized Tuesday following a car crash in Malibu after reportedly losing consciousness behind the wheel, according to NBC4 Los Angeles. The musician is now recovering at home after the collision on Pacific Coast Highway.

Simmons told police he had either "passed out or fainted" while driving his black Lincoln Navigator before striking a parked vehicle. The incident occurred in the 25600 block of PCH shortly before 1 p.m. on October 7.

Medical Emergency Preceded Highway Collision

The Sheriff's Department confirmed an accident matching the description occurred, but did not officially identify the driver involved. A spokesperson stated the incident involved a black Lincoln Navigator that struck a parked vehicle on the Pacific Coast Highway. The driver was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment after what authorities described as a possible medical emergency.

NBC4 reported that Simmons' SUV careened across several lanes of traffic before the collision. The "God of Thunder" singer's vehicle crossed multiple lanes on the busy coastal highway before impact. Witnesses observed the dramatic scene unfold on the normally congested roadway.

Shannon Tweed, Simmons' wife, provided an update to the outlet regarding her husband's condition. She revealed that doctors had recently changed his medication. The timing of the medication adjustment may be relevant to the medical episode that preceded the crash.

Band Member Also Facing Health Challenges

Simmons is not the only Kiss member dealing with recent health setbacks. Co-founder and former guitarist Ace Frehley recently canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical issues. The 74-year-old musician, known as the Spaceman, made the difficult announcement on Instagram this week.

Frehley's tour cancellation followed a fall in his studio that required hospitalization last month. He was unable to perform at a scheduled September 26 concert after the incident. The guitarist's team cited continuing medical concerns as the reason for scrapping all remaining shows this year.

The announcement came just one day before Simmons' accident, marking a challenging period for the legendary rock band's members. Both incidents have raised concerns among fans about the health of the aging rock icons. The timing has been particularly unfortunate given upcoming reunion plans.

Kiss Planning 50th Anniversary Reunion Event

Despite recent health scares, Kiss is scheduled to reunite next month for a 50th anniversary celebration in Las Vegas. The Kiss Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas festival is planned for November 14-16 at the Virgin Hotel. The three-day event will mark the band's first performance since retiring from touring in 2023.

Frontman Paul Stanley, 73, discussed the upcoming reunion on Joel Madden's "Artist Friendly" podcast in July. He emphasized the band's commitment to their fanbase despite no longer touring regularly. "Our fans made us who we are and continue to keep us where we are," Stanley explained to listeners.

The original lineup consisted of Simmons, Frehley, Stanley, and Peter Criss when the band formed five decades ago. The Vegas event will feature performances, Q&A sessions, competitions, and other activities typically associated with the band's cruise experiences. Stanley joked that after being unable to secure a ship, they decided to host "a Kiss cruise without a ship" at the hotel venue.

Lessons to Learn

1. Monitor medication changes closely: Sudden changes in prescription drugs, especially at advanced ages, should be followed with caution. Consulting a doctor and having someone nearby when starting new medications can prevent dangerous situations while driving or operating machinery.

2. Medical emergencies can happen anytime: Even the most experienced individuals can suffer unexpected health incidents like fainting or blackouts. It's crucial to listen to one's body and avoid driving if feeling unwell.

3. Health issues do not discriminate: No matter a person's wealth, fame, or access to leading healthcare, accidents can still occur. Taking preventive steps is valuable, but it’s equally important to remember that anyone can be affected, and no victim should be blamed for unforeseen medical complications.

Why This Story Matters

This story hits at the intersection of public safety, entertainment, and health. It highlights how quickly a medical situation can escalate into a serious public hazard, especially on a road as busy as PCH. With the legendary status of Gene Simmons, the incident also draws attention to the often-overlooked health struggles that aging performers may face behind the scenes.

Conclusion

Gene Simmons, the legendary co-founder of Kiss, was hospitalized on October 7 after experiencing a medical emergency that led to a car crash in Malibu. He lost control of his vehicle, crossing traffic and striking a parked car before being taken to the hospital. His wife confirmed he is now recovering at home and mentioned a recent change in his medication. This incident follows closely behind health issues faced by former Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley, who canceled upcoming tour dates after a fall. Simmons had recently been attending public events and was expected to appear at Kiss’s 50th-anniversary celebration next month in Las Vegas. The community awaits updates as fans hope for a smooth recovery for both rock icons.