KISS guitarist Ace Frehley died on Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74. Hours after news of his death broke, bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley shared a touching tribute.
“I am 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,” Simmons and Stanley said in a joint statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter. “My thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Former bandmate Bruce Kulick — who played with the band from 1984 to 1996 — shared a statement of his own via Instagram.
“The news of Ace’s passing is devastating to the world of rock. It has deeply effected me as well. He was one of a kind a truly an iconic guitar player,” Kulick wrote. “His undeniable role in the creation and success of KISS cannot be forgotten. Not only was he loved by all, he influenced millions of guitarists around the world. RIP.”
Frehley tragically died after two recent falls. The first, which occurred in late September, was reportedly “minor,” though it did force the band to cancel a pre-scheduled show in California.
However, after the second fall on October 6, the band canceled the remainder of their 2025 dates.
According to TMZ, the legendary guitarist was placed on life support due to a brain bleed.
The Frehley announced his death saying they 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,” the statement continued. “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!”
This story was originally reported by Men’s Journal on Oct 17, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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