Just as soon as he started, he quit. Invictus MD Strategies Corp. announced in August 2019 that Gene Simmons will no longer serve as Chief Evangelist Officer for Invictus. According to the press release, Simmons abdicated himself from the position. He received criticism of his participation in prior anti-drug campaigns.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Gene. He has been a valuable asset to the company,” President and Chief Executive Officer of Invictus Trevor Dixon stated. “Gene has pledged his ongoing support of the Company, its leadership and its new direction.”
Last March, Simmons announced he would provide marketing counsel to the company and serve as a spokesperson. Simmons has become known for his extensive marketing experience, with KISS merchandise sales rivaling that of Elvis and The Beatles.
For most of Simmons’ career, he was consistently anti-drug. There was a notable cringe-worthy anti-drug public service announcement he made in the 80s. “You want to believe in something? How about yourself,” he said in the ad. His son, however, wrote an op-ed for VICE defending the use of cannabis and other drugs.
The rock musician will still continue to invest in the company indirectly. “I have enjoyed my time with Invictus,” Simmons said. “I remain a big fan!”
B. Le Grand