KISS frontman Gene Simmons is standing firm on the comments he made as a guest judge on Dancing with the Stars, despite facing criticism for focusing on the contestants’ appearances.
During the Oct. 9 “Hair Metal Night” episode, Simmons, 75, remarked on the physical attributes of several contestants, calling one dancer “hot, hot, hot” and complimenting another’s “beautiful face” and emotional expression. His remarks drew backlash, with some viewers accusing the rock icon of making inappropriate comments.
In response, Simmons told Daily Mail on Oct. 10 that he heard the criticism but stands by his words. “I stand by every word I said,” he stated. “I had a great time. The contestants were great. The show was great. Watch the show. It was a lot of fun.” He added, “Everybody’s got something to say. Everybody had a great time.”
Simmons’ comments included telling former NFL player Danny Amendola and his dance partner, Witney Carson, that it was “difficult to look at you and to figure out which one is more hot, hot, hot.” He also told Pretty Little Liars actress Chandler Kinney, “You move me, not just with your gyrations and so on, but your beautiful face.”
Kinney’s partner, Brandon Armstrong, later told Us Weekly, “I said, ‘Hold up now.’ I have two little sisters. I heard it. I said, ‘Wait, wait, wait.’”
Simmons, no stranger to controversy, defended Dance Moms alum JoJo Siwa earlier this year when her bold new look drew comparisons to his signature KISS makeup. Praising Siwa, he told TMZ, “Never be ordinary. Always be extraordinary. JoJo is extraordinary, and she looks cool.”
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