My Dad the Rock Star is an animated television series created by KISS bassist Gene Simmons,[1] co-produced by Nelvana and Carrere Group for France's M6 and Canada's Teletoon (now known as Cartoon Network).

Gene Simmons wanted to create a cartoon series with a loud rock star for his children.

The idea of the cartoon started when Gene's son, Nick, in his kindergarten days, brought in a picture of Gene drooling blood and spitting fire for a project of what his parents do, which may have influenced the character of Willy Zilla.

Before becoming a series, this concept became a book, My Dad the Rock Star: Rebel without a Nose Ring (ISBN 1894786025) by Canadian author Liam O'Donnell in 2001.

Because Gene loved Nelvana shows, he called this Canadian production company with a cartoon idea.

Rock Zilla is a fictionalized version of Gene Simmons, counting his signature very long tongue.

Crystal was based on Gene's wife, Shannon Tweed, a Canadian, who helped convince Nelvana to make the show.

The series went on hiatus after the episode "Blind Date", until it was announced that the show ended, despite popular ratings, possibly for Gene to continue his music career.

[citation needed] An unaired episode, "Silent Springs' Most Wanted", showcases Alyssa's rapping skills.