Bruce Kulick Recovering

Former **KISS** guitarist **Bruce Kulick** is recovering successfully after undergoing **heart valve replacement surgery** in April 2026. The 72-year-old musician, known for his 12-year tenure with **KISS** (1984–1996) and his ongoing work with **Grand Funk Railroad**, shared positive updates with fans via social media, describing the procedure as a success and expressing gratitude for his medical team.

### Background and Procedure
Kulick underwent **open heart surgery** to address a **bicuspid aortic valve**—a congenital birth defect that had been monitored for about 12 years. Over time, the valve became dangerous, prompting the scheduled procedure. He specifically clarified that it was **not an emergency surgery**, countering some initial media reports that described it as such. The operation involved replacing the problematic aortic valve.

In his own words from social media posts around April 22–25, 2026:

> “Well the heart surgery went well and I’m on the road to recovery!! Still have several days to a week left in ICU, but I’m hanging in there.”

He added:

> “Heart valve replacement surgery was a success! On the road to recovery, taking it one step at a time. Grateful for my Heart Surgeon and his fantastic staff for looking after me like a rockstar.”

Kulick also thanked his wife, **Lisa**, for her “love and support” during the process. He highlighted the remarkable nature of modern heart surgery despite its scariness, posting an image alongside a caption noting the aortic valve issue.

### Family Context and Support
Fans and fellow musicians quickly rallied with well-wishes. **Gene Simmons** of **KISS** responded supportively: “Go Bruce, Go… you know we’re all rooting for you.” Radio personality **Eddie Trunk** and various rock outlets shared the news, noting the positive outcome.

Some observers speculated a possible family link to heart issues, referencing the 2020 death of Bruce’s brother, **Bob Kulick** (a noted session guitarist and former **KISS** contributor), from heart-related causes. However, Bruce’s update focused on the congenital defect rather than acute family history.

### Recovery Update
As of late April 2026, Kulick remained in the ICU for monitoring but reported steady progress. Typical recovery from such open-heart valve replacement can take 6–12 weeks or more, involving rest, cardiac rehabilitation, and gradual return to normal activities. He has expressed optimism, with many in the rock community sending strength and noting his history of raising awareness for heart health through organizations like **Rock From the Heart**.

Kulick’s long career includes iconic contributions to **KISS** albums like *Asylum*, *Crazy Nights*, and *Revenge*, as well as his melodic, technically proficient style that helped bridge the band’s eras. His current role in **Grand Funk Railroad** keeps him active on stage when healthy.

Get-well wishes continue to pour in from the **KISS Army** and beyond. Bruce’s updates suggest a strong, rockstar-level resilience—he’s taking it “one step at a time” and already looking forward to the road ahead.

Fans can follow his official social media for further recovery posts. Here’s to a full and speedy recovery for a true guitar legend! 🫀🎸