Gene Simmons Slams Reality TV Cynicism  8/7/06

KISS bassist Gene Simmon has blasted claims his new reality TV show is a money-spinning exercise.

The outspoken rocker insists Gene Simmons Family Jewels, which airs on the US A&E network, has nothing to do with raising extra cash - because he has plenty already.

He tells PageSix, "It's not about money. Bill Gates still gets up and goes to work. It's always, 'Now what are we going to do?'

"I have books like Kiss and Tell and Sex Money Kiss out with Phoenix. I have a pile of businesses. All tie-ins. I have to water those plants and remind the younger generation to spend on me. I use the show to shill.

"I'm a partner in this show's production but, basically, I'm too rich to care. Watch it if you like, and if you don't, don't."