Rock World Mourns Ace Frehley
The music world is in mourning after the death of Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist who helped launch KISS into rock history. Known as the leather-clad Spaceman, his riffs defined a generation, and his stage presence became iconic. Frehley passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 74, surrounded by family.
Tributes poured in immediately from fans, fellow musicians, and bandmates, honoring a man whose guitar work and cosmic persona shaped the sound and spectacle of American rock.
Peter Criss Remembers a Brother
Peter Criss, KISS’s original drummer, was at Frehley’s side during his final hours. Hours after his passing, Criss posted a heartfelt message:
“With a broken heart, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were there too. I love you, my brother.”
Criss extended prayers to Frehley’s estranged wife, Jeanette, his daughter Monique, and other family members. He asked fans to respect their privacy, acknowledging the heartbreak of the KISS Army and Rock Soldiers. Criss reflected on Frehley’s influence:
“As a founding member of KISS and in his solo career, Ace touched the hearts of millions.”
Simmons and Stanley Pay Tribute
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, KISS co-founders, issued a joint statement, calling Frehley “an irreplaceable rock soldier.” They added:
“He is and will always be part of KISS’s legacy.”
Simmons also revealed that Frehley was set to receive a Kennedy Center Honor in December 2025, a moment he sadly never witnessed.
Paul Stanley, Peter Criss, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of the rock and roll band Kiss pose for a portrait for the cover of their self-entitled first album “Kiss” which was released on February 18, 1974 | Source: Getty Images
Fellow Musicians React
Bruce Kulick, who played with KISS during their non-makeup era, called Frehley “one of a kind and truly iconic,” praising his influence on millions of guitarists worldwide.
Steve Vai remembered him as “the embodiment of rock ’n’ roll attitude—unapologetic, loud, and irresistibly catchy.” Tom Morello called Frehley “my first guitar hero,” praising his stage theatrics, signature riffs, and the unforgettable Les Paul smoke and rockets.
Blackie Lawless, frontman of W.A.S.P., described Frehley as both a brother and career mentor, sharing personal memories from their youth and early days in music.
A Legacy That Lives On
From his “Spaceman” persona to his iconic guitar solos, Ace Frehley helped define KISS’s outrageous stage shows. His theatrics inspired countless fans and musicians to dream bigger and play louder.
Even after his passing, the echo of his Les Paul and the image of his space-suited performances remain immortal in the hearts of the KISS Army.
Final Moments
Frehley’s family revealed details about his last days. After a fall at home caused a brain bleed, he was hospitalized and placed on life support. Despite efforts to stabilize him, he remained unresponsive for several days. He passed peacefully on October 16, surrounded by loved ones.
Just days before, Frehley had canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour due to lingering medical setbacks, assuring fans he planned to continue working on his upcoming album, Origins Vol. 3.
Remembering the Spaceman
Ace Frehley’s legacy is monumental. As KISS’s lead guitarist, he defined an era with his electrifying riffs, cosmic stage presence, and larger-than-life persona. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, his influence on rock music will endure forever.
