KISS Frontman Paul Stanley Discusses What Drove Him to Fame

Kiss in concert at PPG Paints Arena in 2019
Kiss in concert at PPG Paints Arena in 2019. Photo by REX/Shutterstock (10182791k)

In a compelling interview with Dan Rather, KISS frontman Paul Stanley reveals how his deformity led him onto the path of fame.

It is not uncommon for stars to admit that they were once bullied for being different. The realization that they do not fit into the crowd often makes potential stars realize that they are special and are destined for greater things.

Stanley has now revealed that the realization that he was different drove him towards music.

“I had what’s called a microtia, which is basically not having an ear … I wasn’t very socially adept, and when you have something physical that sets you apart from people, it makes you the target of unrelenting scrutiny and sometimes ridicule,” he told Dan Rather on The Big Interview.

He explained how he “was fortunate to have success come to me and realize that it didn’t change anything … I was blessed to be a part of an idea to become the band we never saw, and that led me on a course that I’m still on today. Where it’s taking me, God only knows.”

The full episode will air on Tuesday, April 23.