The fallout continues from allegations of sexual misconduct against KISS’ Gene Simmons.
The Friars Club, which was planning to honor Simmons with a roast on March 2 — ironically in place of original roastee Harvey Weinstein — has canceled the event in light charges that Simmons inappropriately groped a woman at one of his restaurants last month. A Friars Club board member told the New York Daily News that, “In light of recent developments, and after careful consideration, the Friars Club has decided to cancel its roast of Gene Simmons immediately.”
The lawsuit alleges that during an interview at Simmons’ Rock & Brews restaurant in San Bernardino, Calif., Simmons “forcibly placed” the interviewer’s hand on his knee, commented on how soft her hand was and “flicked” her throat, while during a group photo he touched her rear end.
Simmons issued a statement saying that, “I intend to defend myself against any alleged charges you may have been reading about in the media. For the record, I did not assault the person making these accusations in the manner alleged in the complaint or harm her in any way. I am conferring with my lawyers with the aim of vigorously countering these allegations. And, I look forward to my day in court where the evidence will prove my innocence.”
Last month two other women, actress Mary E. McGlynn and comedian Tess Fowler, shared stories of inappropriate encounters with Simmons.
KISS is reportedly planning a major tour for 2018 but has not yet announced dates.
Gary Graff is an award-winning music journalist who not only covers music but has written books on Bob Seger, Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen.