‘DWTS’ fans angry over Gene Simmons’ offensive and sexist comments on contestants

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: When Kiss frontman Gene Simmons was invited to join 'Dancing with the Stars' as a guest judge for a special episode celebrating the iconic Hair Metal Bands of the 1980s, many saw it as a match made in TV heaven.

However, what was intended to be a night of fun quickly devolved into a spectacle of discomfort and disapproval, thanks to the 75-year-old rocker’s unfiltered comments.

Gene Simmons' biased and cringe-worthy judging on 'DWTS'

From the moment the show kicked off, it became clear that Gene Simmons missed the memo about the tone expected from a guest judge.

Rather than offer encouraging feedback and uplifting critiques, he chose to make “creepy” and offensive remarks about the contestants’ physical appearances, particularly the women.

After the opening dance routine, Simmons remarked to former NFL star Danny Amendola and Witney Carson, “I couldn’t figure out which of the two was more 'hot hot hot,'” promptly dismissing audience reactions suggesting that he might “go both ways".

His comment was met with a chorus of boos from the audience, and fans quickly took to social media, branding him the worst guest judge in 'Dancing with the Stars' history.

His judging style didn’t just draw ire for its cringeworthy nature; it also raised eyebrows for its apparent bias.

Throughout the night, Simmons consistently awarded lower scores to Black contestants, often giving them lower ratings than even the regular judges.

For instance, he scored Phaedra and Val a mere 5, while Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli each awarded them 7s. In the world of 'Dancing with the Stars', where guest judges typically lean toward generosity, Simmons' scores stood out for all the wrong reasons.

Fans familiar with Simmons' controversial past weren’t surprised by his antics.

Gene Simmons made controversial comments in the past

In 2008, after being eliminated from 'Celebrity Apprentice', Gene Simmons came to Donald Trump’s defense, saying, “People pick on him, I’ve certainly done my fair share. But, I think the truth is people misunderstand conviction as arrogance.”

His comments on mental health following Robin Williams' tragic death a decade ago also sparked outrage, leading him to issue an apology.

His controversial viewpoints extend beyond the dance floor.

In his 2017 memoir, 'On Power: My Journey Through the Corridors of Power and How You Can Get More Power,' he stated that women should choose between a career and a family, insisting, “It’s natural to want to have kids, but, sorry, you can’t have it both ways. You have to commit to either career or family. It’s very difficult to have both.”

Despite the backlash, Simmons seems unfazed by criticism.

As per Parade, in a recent appearance on the podcast 'Really Famous With Kara Mayer Robinson', he acknowledged the mixed reception of his persona: “I would say there are some — could be a large number, could not — who think I'm an a**hole. I'm OK with being labeled or thought of as an a**hole, because I know who I am.”

Gene Simmons faces criticism as guest judge on 'DWTS'

Viewer reactions are pouring in after Gene Simmons' appearance as a guest judge on 'Dancing with the Stars', and they’re not holding back in their criticism.

One viewer expressed, "It’s only the first dance and i’m already over gene simmons being a creep #DWTS."

Another viewer shared, "Yes he acted like an idiot with some of his scores! Totally disappointed in him!!!"

One viewer pointed out, "Very creepy."

A follower observed, "You can really tell that this guest judge is racist and sexist based off the scores that he’s giving! This is absolutely ridiculous and disgusting shame on you guys for having him as a judge! #DWTS."

One comment stated, "Gene gave Phaedra a 5??? But has been overscoring other people ALL NIGHT??? He should NEVER be invited back #DWTS."

Another comment read, "I think he’s judging with something other than dancing ability. His “beautiful” comments are coming across as creepy. He has a type."

"Gene might be the worst guest judge I have ever seen #DWTS," explained an individual.

Another said, "Dear @officialdwts, Shame on Gene Simmons for treating this like a beauty pageant. Never have him on the show again. EVER. He ruined it. #gross #DWTS With love, Everyone."

A user posted a GIF with the caption, "During commercial breaks, producers of #DWTS should have told Mr Gene Simmons to stop commenting on all of the women’s looks. I’ve only seen 3 dances so far & I’m over his irrelevant remarks about the women when he is supposed to be commenting/“judging” their dancing!"

 

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