Gene Simmons has been accused of sexual assault and sexual battery by a California makeup artist.
Victoria Jackson has filed a lawsuit against the KISS singer – whose real name is Gene Klein – alleging he inappropriately-touched her while she was working at Los Angeles’ ESPN Sports Center last November.
According to documents filed in Los Angeles Superior Court May 14, Jackson says Simmons, dressed in his famous KISS costume and makeup, approached her and said in “a lecherous and inappropriate manner, ‘I like you.’” The Family Jewels star then allegedly “grabbed and hugged” Jackson and rubbed his groin on her backside. Victoria claims she has suffered humiliation, shame, embarrassment, anger, anxiety, loss of sleep, and depression. She describes the rocker’s behavior as “vile and inexcusable” and is seeking over $500,000 in damages.
The “Crazy Crazy Nights” star has filed a countersuit against Victoria, arguing that no assault occurred and branding Jackson’s suit as financially-motivated.