Gene Simmons defends charging fans $12K to be his assistants after netizens slam him over $400M net worth

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Gene Simmons is defending his decision to charge one lucky fan $12,495 for the opportunity to be his personal assistant and band roadie for a day.

The 75-year-old rockstar faced backlash online for what many called a “greedy” move, especially given his estimated $400 million net worth.

Gene Simmons addresses backlash over $12K fan package

Speaking to the New York Post, Simmons explained his reasoning, “When I was a kid and went to see shows, I was always curious, ‘What’s it like when they’re in a hotel? What’s it like when the stage is set up? What’s it like being onstage when they’re performing and seeing the audience from the stage?’”

Simmons decided to offer superfans the chance to experience life as a roadie, saying, “Nobody’s ever done it. Why not open the idea to be my personal roadie for the day?”

‘The Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience’ package details

Dubbed 'The Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience', the package allows one fan per show to shadow the rocker during a stop on his tour with the Gene Simmons Band.

The fan will assist with pre-show duties, enjoy a backstage pass, and share a meal with Simmons.

The experience also includes, a crew member shirt, hat, and VIP laminate, the chance to bring one guest and take unlimited photos, a signed setlist and four personal items autographed by Simmons, a rehearsal-used, signed bass guitar, an invite to join Simmons on stage during the concert.

While some fans balked at the price, Simmons insists it is an honor for die-hard KISS Army members.

The fan will also help set up the show and interact with band members, including drummer Brian Tichy and guitarists Jason Walker and Brent Woods.

Other exclusive Gene Simmons packages start at $6,500

For those unable to afford the full roadie package, Gene Simmons is offering additional fan experiences.

The 'Gene Simmons Bass Experience' allows fans to pay $6,500 for a signed instrument and a meet-and-greet with the rock star, according to Daily Mail.

For those wanting an even bigger splurge, fans can purchase a bass guitar played by Simmons on stage, with prices starting at $12,500.

The official website boasts, “You will find that Gene Simmons is very down-to-earth, funny, and knowledgeable on almost any subject.”

Gene Simmons' rock legacy and retirement from KISS

Gene Simmons has been touring with his band since retiring from KISS in 2023 following the completion of the 'End of the Road World Tour'.

As a co-founder of the iconic band, Simmons played bass and co-led vocals from 1973 until KISS’s farewell.

The heavy metal band, formed in New York City in the early 1970s, originally consisted of Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss.

Over the decades, Simmons and Stanley later performed alongside Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer.

Despite officially retiring from KISS, Simmons shows no signs of slowing down, now offering fans unprecedented access, at a price.

Simmons remains unapologetic, sticking to his signature philosophy, “Rock and roll all night… and monetize every day.”