Radio host Eddie Trunk has condemned Gene Simmons for his controversial remarks regarding the death of Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley. Trunk shared his statement on X / @EddieTrunk. He argued that Simmons’ comments were inappropriate during a time meant for mourning.
Trunk criticized Simmons’ approach to discussing Frehley’s death. He emphasized that the focus should be on remembrance rather than judgment.
“This is beyond belief. The only thing Gene should be saying about Ace right now is that he is missed and wishes he was there with them for this,” Trunk said.
Simmons had previously commented on Frehley’s lifestyle and the circumstances surrounding his death. He suggested that personal choices may have contributed to the tragedy.
“He refused from people that cared about him — including yours truly — to try to change his lifestyle. In and out of bad decisions. Falling down the stairs — I’m not a doctor — doesn’t kill you. There may have been other issues, and it breaks my heart. The saddest thing — you reap what you shall sow, unfortunately,” Simmons stated.
Trunk’s criticism reflects broader sentiment that Simmons’ remarks lacked the sensitivity expected during a period of mourning for the legendary guitarist.
The controversy surrounding Simmons’ comments comes in the wake of the Kiss founding member’s tragic passing. Ace Frehley, born Paul Frehley, died on October 16, 2024, at age 74 from accidental blunt trauma to his head caused by a fall at his home studio in Morristown, New Jersey, according to the Los Angeles Times. The medical examiner’s ruling underscores that his death was the result of a tragic accident rather than lifestyle choices.
The circumstances of Frehley’s death were particularly severe. The original Kiss guitarist suffered multiple skull fractures, a brain bleed (subdural hematoma), and brain contusions after falling on September 25, 2024, as reported by Arrow Lords of Metal. He was placed on a ventilator and showed no improvement over the following days. Nearly two weeks later, his family made the difficult decision to remove him from life support. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
The severity of Frehley’s injuries extended beyond the initial fall. His injuries included bruising on his hip, thigh, and abdomen. He had also suffered a stroke prior to his death. These medical complications painted a picture of a man facing serious health challenges beyond his control, making Simmons’ comments about “bad decisions” particularly contentious among fans and fellow musicians.
A memorial service was held on October 21, 2024, in Yonkers, New York, with fellow Kiss band members attending, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. Frehley was buried the next day at Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, close to where he grew up and near his parents’ graves. The gathering of his bandmates at the memorial service demonstrated the respect and affection the music community held for the legendary guitarist, further highlighting why Simmons’ public commentary was viewed as particularly insensitive by many.
