News Archive July 2011

Gene Simmons And Family Thrill Victoria Fans
From: Times Colonist
by Kathryn Burnham
Posted: July 25, 2011

After four decades of screaming fans at concerts and autograph signings, Gene Simmons just says "it's this or staying home, twiddling my thumbs and watching I Love Lucy re-runs, which one would you pick?"

The KISS bassist and star of Gene Simmons Family Jewels was accompanied by his wife Shannon Tweed, daughter Sophie and son Nick, for a meet and greet outside the View Royal Casino on Saturday.

"You know we aren't doing anything, we are just going to stand here and talk. We're not performing, you know that right," Nick told the crowd of screaming fans. "Then hi, nice to see you. Why are you here?"

The event was a family affair, with many parents accompanied by their children, who are fans of the show.

Landon Shaw was just there to have his photo taken with the Simmons family and his own, but used his 15 seconds on stage to also play a few chords for the rock star.

Simmons stole the moment, however, when he reached around the 11-year-old's shoulders to play a few chords on the boy's electric guitar. "It is a milestone he will remember forever," said his mother Tiina.

Landon plays one KISS song, I Was Made for Lovin' You, as part of a busking set he does downtown. His parents are fans of the band, and "now we pass on the tradition," said his father, Ken Shaw. They also share a love for the reality television show starring the famous family.

"It's the life of the rock star family-style. They are so down to earth, though," said Ken. "They go through the same trials and tribulations as we do, only they have got a lot more money."

The money and fame is one side of the story, but the family portrayed through six seasons is just like many others. Sophie said her father is extremely strict. "There's zero tolerance for drinking or partying or things like that. They encourage us to go out with our friends, but they encourage us to not be idiots."

"I think the TV show is good for all of us. It is certainly good for me, because it gives me a chance to watch myself and realize that my perception of myself isn't accurate. Sometimes I can be short, arrogant, selfish," said Simmons.

As for the marriage rumours: "For the record, I have never been married. I have desperately loved Shannon for 28 years, and we have two great kids," said Simmons.