The world of rock music is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist and founding member of KISS, who has passed away at the age of 74. His family confirmed that he had been placed on a ventilator following a brain hemorrhage and passed away peacefully on October 16. The news has sent a wave of sadness through the music community and among generations of fans who grew up in awe of his electrifying solos and unforgettable stage energy.
In a deeply emotional statement, Frehley’s family shared their heartbreak and spoke tenderly about his final moments. “We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” they said. “In his last moments, we were fortunate to surround him with love — with peaceful words, prayers, and thoughts as he left this earth. We cherish every beautiful memory, every moment of laughter, and celebrate the kindness and strength he gave to so many. The magnitude of his loss is beyond comprehension. As we reflect on his incredible life and achievements, we know Ace’s spirit will live on forever.”
Known affectionately to fans as “Space Ace,” Frehley’s influence on rock music cannot be overstated. As one of the original architects of KISS’s explosive rise to fame, he helped shape the band’s signature fusion of theatrical makeup, raw energy, and anthems that would define a generation — songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City.” His guitar work was fierce and soulful, his stage presence magnetic, and his cosmic persona iconic — all of which helped turn KISS into one of the most legendary rock acts of all time.
Bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons also paid tribute to their longtime friend and collaborator, expressing profound sorrow over his passing. “We are devastated by the loss of Ace Frehley,” they said. “He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during the most formative years of KISS. His energy, creativity, and spirit were vital to our legacy. He will forever be a part of KISS’ story.”
Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Ace Frehley’s early years were far from the glitz and glamour that would later define his life. After parting ways with KISS in the early 1980s, he launched his own successful solo project, Frehley’s Comet, proving that his talent extended far beyond the band that made him famous. In 1996, he rejoined KISS for a much-anticipated reunion tour that reignited the band’s magic and thrilled fans across the globe. He continued performing for years afterward, inspiring both old and new generations of rock lovers.
Frehley’s incredible contributions to music were officially honored when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, alongside his KISS bandmates. Even in his later years, his passion for music never faded. His final album, “10,000 Volts,” released in 2024, stood as a powerful reminder of his lifelong devotion to his craft and his refusal to slow down.
Reflecting on his career, Frehley once said, “I never set my sights low. I’ve always believed most people are ruined by the limitations they put on themselves.” That fearless spirit — bold, defiant, and endlessly creative — defined not only his music but his life as a whole.
Ace Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, and a loving extended family of siblings, nieces, and nephews. His death leaves a profound emptiness in the world of rock, but his music, energy, and legacy will continue to inspire countless musicians and fans for generations to come.
Ace Frehley was more than a guitarist — he was a pioneer, a dreamer, and a symbol of what it means to live without limits. His sound will echo forever in the hearts of those who believed in the power of rock and roll.