The world of rock and roll is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, one of the founding members and legendary guitarists of KISS, who passed away on October 16 at the age of 74.
A Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss
According to his family, Frehley died following complications from a fall at his home in late September. In a heartfelt statement shared with PEOPLE, his loved ones expressed their deep grief:
“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!”
The Rise of a Rock Legend
Born in the Bronx, New York, Ace Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. Known for his electrifying stage presence and signature “Spaceman” persona, Frehley helped craft some of the band’s most iconic hits, including “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”
Frehley left KISS in 1982 but reunited with the group several times over the decades. In 2014, all four original members were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. During the ceremony, Gene Simmons praised his former bandmate, saying:
“His iconic guitar playing has been imitated, but never duplicated, by generations of guitar players around the world.”
Beyond KISS, Frehley carved out a successful solo career, earning acclaim for songs like “Rip It Out” and his unforgettable cover of “New York Groove.”
Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley & Peter Criss Pay Tribute
Following the news of Frehley’s death, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley released a joint statement through PEOPLE, expressing their sorrow:
“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.”
They added, “He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”
KISS’ official social media pages echoed the sentiment, sharing a black-and-white photo of Frehley alongside a message of remembrance.
Peter Criss, the band’s original drummer, also shared an emotional tribute on X (formerly Twitter):
“I’m shocked!!! My friend… I love you!”
Meanwhile, Paul Stanley recalled the moment he first met Frehley back in 1974:
“I heard someone playing guitar and thought, ‘Boy, I wish THAT guy was in the band!’ I looked over the balcony… He was. It was Ace.”
Remembering a True Icon
Ace Frehley’s influence on rock music is immeasurable. With his bold stage persona, groundbreaking guitar work, and unique charisma, he left an indelible mark on generations of musicians and fans alike.
🕊 Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ace Frehley’s family, friends, and fans during this heartbreaking time.
🎸 “Rock and Roll All Nite, Ace — your music will live forever.”
