KISS bassist Gene Simmons is in the spotlight again after saying some very unkind things about people with depression.

He made the widely-criticized comments during an interview with SongFacts.com:

“Drug addicts and alcoholics are always, ‘The world is a harsh place.’ My mother was in a concentration camp in Nazi Germany. I don’t want to hear fuck all about ‘the world as a harsh place.’ She gets up every day, smells the roses and loves life. And for a putz, 20-year-old kid to say, ‘I’m depressed, I live in Seattle.’ Fuck you, then kill yourself.”

Although the interview was dated July 31, well before comedian and actor Robin Williams committed suicide, Simmons has nonetheless been criticized for the insensitive nature of his comments.

In fact, several radio stations have banned KISS’ music, including Australian radio station Triple M. According to the Daily Mail, Triple M has asked other radio stations to join in and boycott the band’s music.

After learning of the firestorm ignited by his comments, Simmons issued a statement on the official KISS website:

“I sincerely apologize to those who were offended by my comments. I recognize that depression is very serious and very sad when it happens to anyone, especially loved ones.”

What do you think of Simmons’ comments and his apology? Start a conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments section.