Ace Frehley, Rock Legend, Dies at 74
Ace Frehley, the iconic guitarist of KISS, has passed away at 74 in Morristown, New Jersey. The musician suffered a severe brain bleed that left him on life support, and his family made the heartbreaking decision to end treatment. TMZ first reported the news, noting that Frehley had collapsed in his home studio weeks prior, hitting his head in a fall that led to this medical emergency.
Frehley’s representative, Lori Lousararian, confirmed to Rolling Stone that his health had sharply declined following the accident. Though details remain limited, it was clear the fall played a key role in his hospitalization. In his final days, Frehley canceled all remaining tour dates. He called the decision ‘difficult’ in a heartfelt Instagram message to fans.
Family Remembers a Legend
Sources told TMZ that Frehley remained on a ventilator for several days with little improvement. His family shared their grief and relief in a statement obtained by Rolling Stone:
- “We are completely devastated and heartbroken.”
- “We were able to provide him comfort in his final moments.”
- “He was surrounded by love, prayers, and peace as he left this earth.”
They celebrated his laughter, kindness, and incredible achievements, adding, “The magnitude of his passing is epic. Ace’s memory will live forever.”
First Original KISS Member to Pass
Frehley was the first of the original KISS members to die. The legendary lineup included Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, and Frehley himself. The band formed in 1973 and gained fame for blending hard rock with theatrical flair. They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Frehley helped define KISS’s iconic style, with face paint, platform boots, wigs, and pyrotechnics. He was a pioneer of stage spectacle, introducing guitars that glowed, emitted smoke, and even shot rockets. His showmanship inspired countless performers across generations.
Career Highlights
After leaving KISS in 1982, Frehley launched his solo project, Frehley’s Comet. He reunited with KISS in 1996 for a reunion tour and remained active in the band until 2002. Frehley continued to record and perform as a solo artist.
In an April 2024 interview with Antihero, he looked back at his career. He said: “Out of the four founding members of KISS, I have been the most successful solo artist.” He cited his 1978 hit “New York Groove” as a career-defining moment.
Frehley spoke about his influence on other guitarists. He said, “Almost every guitar player I meet says, ‘I picked up the guitar because of you.’ That’s my legacy, moving from a supergroup to a successful solo career.”
Tributes Pour In
News of Frehley’s death spread quickly. Veteran journalist Mitch Lafon tweeted, “Ace, thank you for the music & memories. God bless.” Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons issued a joint statement to The Hollywood Reporter. They called him “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier.” They confirmed he would always be part of KISS’s legacy.
Other musicians paid tribute on social media:
- Maynard James Keenan: “Godspeed, Ace.”
- Bret Michaels: “Ace, my brother, I cannot thank you enough for the years of music and festivals. Rest in peace!”
- Tom Morello: “My first guitar hero, Ace Frehley, inspired generations to love rock n roll. His riffs and solos will never be forgotten.”
- Mike McCready of Pearl Jam: “Ace was a hero and friend. I studied his solos endlessly. I would not have picked up a guitar without him. RIP Ace.”
- Richie Kotzen: “Saddened to hear about the death of a true legend.”
Health Struggles in 2025
Earlier this year, Frehley’s health issues forced him to cancel tour dates. On September 25, 2025, he posted on Instagram that he was ‘fine’ but had to avoid travel. A week later, he confirmed he was canceling the remainder of his tour due to ongoing medical issues. He had suffered a minor fall in his studio, which led to hospitalization and ultimately the tragic events.
Legacy of the ‘Spaceman’
Ace Frehley’s contribution to rock music went beyond KISS. He set the stage for showmanship in rock concerts and influenced countless guitarists. His creative energy, bold stage antics, and unmistakable sound left an indelible mark on music history.
Fans remember him not only as a guitar virtuoso but as a cultural icon who defined an era of rock. His legacy lives on in the music he created, the lives he inspired, and the stagecraft he revolutionized.
KISS Bandmate Incident Highlights Mortality
Frehley’s death comes shortly after Gene Simmons survived a car crash in Malibu. The 76-year-old bassist fainted while driving, crashing into a parked car. He was hospitalized and later released, joking on X about his driving skills, saying, “All is well.”
Final Farewell
Ace Frehley’s death leaves a void in the world of rock music. His family, fans, and fellow musicians mourn the loss of a true pioneer. From his explosive stage performances to his groundbreaking guitar work, Frehley’s influence will echo for generations. His spirit, creativity, and daring persona as the ‘Spaceman’ will never be forgotten.
