KISS’s Avatars Reportedly Cost $200m

During a recent meet-and-greet with fans at Electric Lady Studios in New York City, Gene Simmons disclosed that KISS has dedicated $200 million to the development of avatars. This revelation unfolded across three days following the band’s farewell concert at Madison Square Garden on December 2.

While signing his final stage bass guitar for a fan, Simmons inquired about the initial impression of the avatars, stating:

“How did those avatars look when you first saw them? They’re gonna get better, that animated stuff.”

The fan praised the avatars in the announcement video, describing them as “absolutely amazing.” Simmons responded, hinting at future developments:

“There’s so much being planned, even beyond my comprehension. But they’re spending, oh, about 200 million [dollars] to take it to the next level.”

Comparing to Other Hologram Shows

In a conversation about hologram shows, a fan mentioned enjoying Michael Jackson’s hologram show in Las Vegas and a friend being impressed by the ABBA show in London. Simmons concurred, expressing admiration for the realistic 3D models in the ABBA show, emphasizing the challenge of distinguishing their presence.

Future Plans for KISS Avatars

During their farewell tour’s final show, KISS introduced virtual band avatars distinct from the 1970s ABBA concert replicas seen in the ABBA Voyage show. These KISS avatars will embody a more fantasy-like aesthetic, towering at eight feet with superhero abilities such as breathing fire and shooting electricity while floating above the audience. Although specific plans for the avatars remain undisclosed, Per Sundin, CEO of Pophouse, indicated a post-tour exploration of possibilities:

“We’re going to figure it out after the tour. Is it a KISS concert in the future? Is it a rock opera? Is it a musical? A story, an adventure? These four individuals already have superpowers. We want to be as open as possible.”

Despite the excitement surrounding the KISS avatars, Simmons and Paul Stanley faced social media criticism, with some fans suggesting it’s time for the band to step back and enjoy retirement while acknowledging their contributions.