Peter Criss Reflects on His Journey Overcoming Breast Cancer and Calls It a Miracle
Peter Criss in December 2025 in Washington, D.C.
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Former KISS Drummer Peter Criss Reflects on Overcoming Breast Cancer
Peter Criss, the former drummer of the iconic rock band KISS, shared insights into his recovery from breast cancer during a recent episode of the KissFAQ podcast. The January 3 episode highlighted his gratitude and elation upon discovering he was cancer-free.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, Criss described his journey to recovery as a testament to the power of faith. At 80 years old, he recounted praying "very, very hard" and spending more time in church than the pastor. "I had breast cancer a while back, and I prayed," he said, emphasizing his belief in the miracle of healing.
He expressed his joy, saying, "I really prayed hard, and God gave me my miracle. And I felt, and I kid you not, that I really could walk on water." This profound experience inspired "Walking on Water," a track from his self-titled album released in 2025, which conveys the emotions associated with his battle.
Criss likens his feelings of elation to the movie Being There, describing it as a moment of transcendence. "Have you ever watched that movie with Chauncey Gardner? At the end, he walks on water, and you realize he’s an angel. I love that movie. And I felt like that," he remarked.
Discovering he was cancer-free marked a significant turning point for Criss. "I was so elated that I was cured," he recalled. This triumph over illness not only inspired him to write music but also cemented his commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer among men. "Every year I go out in October and I raise money for men for breast cancer," he noted.
Despite the challenges of aging, Criss remains passionate about his music. "I’ll never stop, man," he declared. "I ain’t stopping until they put me in the box. I’m gonna keep on going till I … Music is a gift from God."
Criss was a pivotal member of KISS from 1973 to 1980, with subsequent reunions in the late ’90s and early 2000s. His contributions to music and advocacy continue to resonate with fans and the broader community.
In a recent reflection, fellow band member Gene Simmons expressed regret over not having done more to support both Criss and Ace Frehley in their personal challenges. "If I have any regrets, my hand to God, it’s that sometimes I wish we were smarter and better at trying to help," Simmons stated during the KISS Kruise in Las Vegas. He acknowledged that band members often avoided addressing issues to prevent conflicts and wished he had practiced "more tough love" in their relationships.
