Gene Simmons, born in 1949 in Tirat Carmel, Israel is best known as the frontman for the rock band KISS, which he co-founded in 1972. With fantastical makeup and costumes inspired by comic books, KISS became the most popular band in America by the late 1970s. Though the band is still active, Simmons has also appeared with his family in the reality TV show Gene Simmons Family Jewels. Updated 2007
Gene Simmons
Musician
Born in: Israel
More 2006 Great Immigrants
M. Night ShyamalanFilm director
Henry KissingerFormer U.S. Secretary of State
Patrick EwingProfessional basketball player
Rajat GuptaBusinessperson
Get the Carnegie Reporter and our best articles delivered to your inbox.