Ace Frehley, the legendary “Spaceman” guitarist of veteran hard‑rock band KISS, died on Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74. The death was confirmed by a heartfelt statement from his family, who said they were “completely devastated and heart‑broken.” In his final moments, they hoped he was surrounded by positive thoughts, prayers, and peaceful words.
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the other founding members of KISS, released an emotional note the same day. “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” the duo wrote. “He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier in the old‑school days that built KISS.” They added that he would forever remain a part of the band’s legacy and expressed thanks to fans worldwide for sharing in his story.
Frehley, known on stage as the “Space Ace,” had been battling a brain bleed after a serious fall in his New York studio this past month. Earlier this September, he had had to cancel a California performance because of the injury. The same fall led to his decision to cancel the remaining dates of his 2025 tour because of “ongoing medical issues.”
The accident and subsequent hospitalization left Frehley on life support for several hours. His manager, John Ostrosky, talked about the guitarist’s “Superman” qualities and said his kindness and mentorship would stay with him forever.
Ace Frehley first joined KISS in 1973, the same year Peter Criss completed the original lineup. He left the band in 1982 to launch his own group, Frehley’s Comet, and record a solo career. He returned for the 1996 reunion tour and played with the group until 2002. After that, he made occasional appearances with Simmons and Stanley, most notably a surprise concert in Los Angeles in 2018.
His last solo effort, the album 10,000 Volts, dropped in February 2023. Simmons and Stanley wrapped up their final KISS show in December 2024, leaving a legacy that fans still celebrate.
Family members celebrated Ace’s life, recalling his laughter, generosity, and the epic impact of his career. “Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!” the statement ended.
Ace Frehley’s death marks the loss of one of hard‑rock’s most iconic guitarists. Fans around the world mourn a true legend who helped shape KISS into the global phenomenon it remains today.
Source: New York Post
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