Gene Simmons received a mixed response as a guest judge on Dancing With the Stars during the show’s Hair Metal Night. The KISS frontman faced a wave of boos after giving a low score to Reginald VelJohnson, who performed a cha cha to “I Wanna Rock” by Twisted Sister alongside pro partner Emma Slater. While Carrie Ann Inaba awarded the duo a score of 6, Simmons, along with judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli, gave them 5s.
The crowd’s negative reaction began with Hough’s score announcement but became particularly pronounced when Simmons followed suit. Despite the criticism, Simmons had previously offered encouragement to VelJohnson, who noted he drew inspiration from the rock icon for his performance. Simmons remarked, “Hey Reggie, you’ve got a beautiful woman right beside you… But I want to tell you, as a guy that’s been on the stage for half a century, I’m kind of a big deal… They love you.”
At 72, VelJohnson has consistently received lower scores throughout season 33, but Inaba highlighted his charisma and popularity with the audience, stating, “You blow my mind… There’s something about you that is just so engaging to watch.”
Tuesday night’s episode featured performances that celebrated classic rock anthems, with participants showcasing big routines and even bigger hairstyles. Other notable performances included Stephen Nedoroscik and Rylee Arnold’s foxtrot to “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake and Danny Amendola’s paso doble to “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, among others.