In a recent interview with Loaded Radio, former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick opened up about why he was never approached to rejoin the band after Ace Frehley permanently left in 2001. As transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET, Kulick explained that much of the decision stemmed from the dynamics within KISS and the practicalities of their lineup choices.
“That’s a great question,” Kulick said. “Not everyone knows the full backstory. During the time Ace was getting erratic or difficult, Tommy Thayer was already heavily involved with KISS. He wasn’t just around during my era, helping with projects like Kisstory or writing with Gene Simmons; he was also tour managing for them. Tommy was part of the inner circle. There were even occasions where he had to step into Ace’s role. For instance, when Ace almost missed a show, Tommy suited up in the Spaceman outfit because of his similar build—tall and thin—but Ace ended up making it. There was also an instance with That ’70s Show where Ace didn’t show, and Tommy filled in, as well as a private gig on an island that Ace refused to attend. KISS couldn’t just cancel, so Tommy was their go-to. He’d even played Ace’s role in the tribute band COLD GIN, so the transition was more natural for him.”
Kulick acknowledged that KISS likely didn’t consider him for the Spaceman role because it would’ve been a more difficult adjustment. “If they had come to me, I can’t say I would’ve said no. I miss being in KISS. But stepping into the Spaceman persona would’ve overshadowed my era, which didn’t have those theatrics. I wasn’t directed to play like Ace during my time, and my style, being more technical and flashy, didn’t align with the character’s vibe. Tommy, on the other hand, had a more compatible playing style, making him the right choice.”
He also defended both Thayer and drummer Eric Singer against criticism for assuming the Spaceman and Catman personas, saying it was Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley who decided on those roles. “Eric might get a bit less criticism since he had five years in the band without makeup, but both of them are incredibly talented musicians doing a great job. For newer generations, Tommy is the Spaceman now,” Kulick added.
Reflecting on his own tenure with KISS, Kulick admitted that his era “ran its course.” “I was never fired. When KISS transitioned back to the makeup era, it was a business decision that worked for them—they went from arenas to stadiums. It made sense. While I lost the gig, it was for the right reasons, and I respect how it all played out.”
