Stiller should listen to this advice.
Rock legend Gene Simmons is pushing back against Hollywood celebrities who frequently criticize President Donald Trump, saying many entertainers should focus on their work instead of lecturing Americans about politics.
The KISS frontman made the remarks during an interview with TMZ, where he was asked about actors such as Ben Stiller and Mark Ruffalo, who have publicly criticized Trump’s recent military actions involving Iran.
Simmons’ response was blunt — and it quickly sparked discussion online.
Gene Simmons Slams Hollywood Political Commentary
During the interview, Simmons mocked the idea that actors should be treated as political authorities simply because they are famous.
Using sarcasm, the rock star suggested that the public is often expected to treat celebrity opinions as if they carry special weight on serious national issues.
Simmons argued that many Americans are growing tired of wealthy celebrities using their platforms to lecture the public about politics.
According to Simmons, everyday Americans — many of whom work long hours to support their families — don’t want to be scolded by entertainers living in luxury.
He said people in the entertainment industry would be better off focusing on their craft rather than trying to shape political debates.
A Shot At Mark Ruffalo
At one point in the interview, Simmons also poked fun at actor Mark Ruffalo, who frequently posts political commentary on social media.
The KISS frontman jokingly mispronounced Ruffalo’s name while referencing the actor’s outspoken political views.
Simmons then repeated his broader message: entertainers should focus on music, movies, and television rather than trying to act as political commentators.
The rocker also joked that if celebrity opinions are now considered essential to foreign policy discussions, reporters might as well start asking social media influencers or reality TV personalities for their analysis of global conflicts.
Simmons’ Longtime Connection With Trump
Simmons’ remarks come months after KISS was honored at the Kennedy Center, an event attended by President Donald Trump.
The musician has said he has known Trump “on and off” for decades, though Simmons generally avoids publicly aligning himself with specific political parties.
Despite that, Simmons has repeatedly emphasized that Americans should feel free to support whichever political leaders they choose without fear of social pressure.
Simmons: Political Beliefs Should Remain Personal
In a previous appearance on CNN’s “Inside Politics,” Simmons criticized the growing trend of demanding that people publicly reveal their political beliefs.
According to the rocker, political preferences should remain a private matter between individuals and their own conscience.
Simmons also encouraged Americans to focus less on political division and more on mutual respect.
In his view, the country works best when citizens allow one another the freedom to hold different opinions without constant political confrontation.
Hollywood Figures Have Yet To Respond
Fox News Digital reportedly reached out to representatives for Ben Stiller and Mark Ruffalo seeking comment on Simmons’ remarks. As of publication, neither actor had publicly responded.
Simmons’ comments have already sparked heated reactions online.
Supporters say the rocker voiced what many Americans have been thinking — that Hollywood figures often appear disconnected from the everyday concerns of working families.
Critics, however, argue that celebrities have the same right as anyone else to speak publicly about political issues.
For now, Simmons appears content letting his comments stand, saying Americans should be free to think for themselves — without taking political direction from Hollywood.