Ace Frehley, founding member of KISS and the rock band’s original lead guitarist when they started in 1973, has died aged 74.
He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in Morristown, New Jersey, his agent said. An exact cause of death has yet to be shared.
Earlier this year, Frehley cancelled part of his 2025 solo tour due to “some ongoing medical issues” – issues which were confirmed as a fall he suffered this year.
A statement from the rocker’s family said they were “completely devastated and heartbroken” and that they would “cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others”.
Frehley’s former bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley shared the following statement to Page Six: “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’s legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Other musicians and bands shared their tributes online, including Pearl Jam, Tom Morello, Nile Rodgers and Rush.
Check out some of the reactions below:
As for Tool’s Maynard Keenan James, he shared a picture of himself as a child, sporting Ace’s iconic face paint.
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in New York City in 1951, he co-founded KISS in 1973 with singer Paul Stanley, bassist and part-time singer Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss.
KISS, from left, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley – 31 March 2000 – AP Photo
Frehley’s KISS career first ended in 1982, before he returned for a reunion tour in 1996. He stayed on until 2002 and also released several solo albums. He did not join the band for their farewell world tour in 2022.
Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Paul Stanley and Peter Criss – 1977 – AP Photo
Hugely popular in the 1970s and 1980s, KISS’ hits include ‘Rock And Roll All Nite’, ‘I Was Made For Lovin’ You’ and ‘Detroit Rock City’.
They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette and daughter Monique.
Ace Frehley – 2016 – AP Photo
RIP Ace “Spaceman” Frehley 1951 – 2025
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