Ace Frehley Legendary KISS Guitarist, Dies at 74
Rock and roll has lost one of its most iconic figures. Ace Frehley — the original ‘Spaceman’ and co-founding guitarist of KISS, has passed away at the age of 74. The influential musician, known for shaping KISS’s signature sound and electrifying stage presence, died on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey. His death follows complications from a recent fall in his studio that led to a brain bleed.
A Sudden Loss
According to reports, Ace Frehley died peacefully in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by his family. His passing came weeks after a fall in his studio caused a brain bleed. In the aftermath of the fall, he was placed on life support and placed on a ventilator as medical complications developed.
His family issued a heartfelt statement:
“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… The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension.”
A Legacy That Rocked the World
Ace Frehley was born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in New York. He rose to fame as the original lead guitarist and one of the founding members of KISS, a band that would become known as much for its theatrical stage shows and makeup as for its thunderous rock anthems.
He embodied the “Spaceman” persona (also known as “Space Ace”)—a cosmic alter ego marked by silver-white face paint, bold designs, and theatrical flair. With KISS, he helped craft the band’s signature sound and attitude, contributing unforgettable guitar riffs, solo work, and songwriting. Among his standout KISS tracks are “Cold Gin,” “Shock Me,” and his vocal-guitar showcase “New York Groove” (a hit in his solo career).
Frehley departed KISS in 1982 to pursue solo work, forming Frehley’s Comet and carving out a career defined by his distinct style and guitar tone. He would later rejoin the band for a classic lineup reunion tour in 1996 and continue to influence rock music long after.
His most recent solo album, 10,000 Volts, was released in 2024—a testament to his lifelong commitment to music.
In 2014, Ace and his KISS bandmates were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their indelible mark on music history.
Remembering the Man Behind the Mask
Beyond the lightning bolts, smoke, and stage theatrics, Ace was known as a musician’s musician—a guitarist who inspired generations with his tone, phrasing, and fearless presence. His influence rippled through rock, hard rock, and metal, and countless guitarists cite him as a key formative influence.
He wasn’t immune to struggle: Frehley’s journey included battles with addiction, health setbacks, and tensions within KISS. Yet he faced them with resilience, attaining sobriety in 2006 and continuing to create and perform despite obstacles. He often reflected publicly on the importance of family and personal growth in the later years of his life.
Ace is survived by his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, brother Charles, and numerous extended family, friends, and fans around the world.
A Final Farewell & Legacy That Lives On
In death, Ace Frehley joins the pantheon of rock legends whose music continues to echo on through time. His creative spark, iconoclastic spirit, and uncompromising guitar voice will forever loom large in rock history.
To his family, friends, bandmates, and legions of fans—our deepest condolences and gratitude. May his memory be honored by cranking the volume, winding out a screaming solo, and carrying that wild spirit forward.
Rest in rock, Ace.
