KISS icon Ace Frehley has died at the age of 74.
The rock legend had been on a ventilator following a brain hemorrhage, according to a statement from his family.
”In his last moments..”
Lately, it feels like all the great rock legends are leaving us… it’s so heartbreaking. KISS was such a huge part of my teenage years, and Ace Frehley was without a doubt one of the coolest and most unforgettable guys.
Now, he’s gone, and it really hits hard.
The legendary KISS guitarist passed away at 74, on October 16, after suffering a brain hemorrhage.
Frehley’s family released an emotional statement saying, “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.
We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons’ words
His longtime KISS bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons also paid tribute, writing, “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’ legacy.”
Known to fans as “Space Ace,” Frehley helped shape one of the most iconic rock acts of all time. With his explosive guitar solos, wild persona, and cosmic stage presence, he became a fan favorite — even when critics didn’t take KISS seriously.
Frehley joined Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss in 1972, and the group quickly skyrocketed to fame with their theatrical makeup, pyrotechnic shows, and anthems like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City.” His solo track “New York Groove” from 1978 remains one of the most beloved KISS-era hits.
Bronx-born
After leaving the band in the early 1980s, Frehley launched a successful solo career with Frehley’s Comet, releasing albums that proved his star power went far beyond KISS. He rejoined the band in 1996 for their massive reunion tour and continued to perform for decades.
The Bronx-born guitarist was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 and released his final album, “10,000 Volts,” in 2024 — a testament to his lifelong love of music.
Frehley once wrote, “I never set my sights low. I’ve always believed most people are ruined by the limitations they put on themselves.”
He is survived by his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, and several siblings, nieces, and nephews, according to Variety.
A true rock original, Ace Frehley’s cosmic energy and electrifying legacy will live on — louder than ever. Don’t cry because he’s gone, smile because he was here.
