Ace Frehley, the trailblazing guitarist who co-founded Kiss and gave the world the iconic “Spaceman” persona, has died at the age of 74.
His family confirmed the news on October 16, sharing that he passed away in Morristown, New Jersey, less than two weeks after canceling scheduled tour dates due to what had been described as “ongoing medical issues.”
In their statement, Frehley’s loved ones expressed the depth of their loss, writing, “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.”
Initially, no official cause of death was shared. However, TMZ later reported that Frehley died from an intracranial hemorrhage—a brain bleed—caused by a fall he suffered in late September. He was hospitalized and placed on life support, but his condition did not improve. His family ultimately made the difficult decision to remove him from the ventilator.
Frehley’s journey began in the Bronx, where he grew up before helping form Kiss in 1973 with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss.
Each member of the group developed a unique alter ego, complete with elaborate face paint and costumes. Simmons embodied “The Demon,” Stanley became “The Starchild,” Criss performed as “The Catman,” and Frehley took on the role of “The Spaceman.” The band’s theatrical presence, paired with their explosive live shows and radio-ready hits, made them one of the most recognizable acts in rock history.
During his first decade with the group, Frehley played on 11 albums, including the pivotal live record Alive! in 1975, which solidified Kiss as arena rock giants.
His guitar work contributed to some of their most famous tracks, including “Detroit Rock City,” “Rock and Roll All Nite,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” But by 1982, Frehley left Kiss amid creative disagreements and personal struggles, choosing to pursue a solo career.
His next chapter included forming the band Frehley’s Comet in 1984, a play on his Spaceman identity. The group released several records before breaking up in 1988. Frehley’s solo career also delivered one of his best-known tracks, “New York Groove,” which became a signature song for him outside of Kiss.
In 1996, he rejoined Kiss for their blockbuster reunion tour that brought the original lineup back together in full costume. Frehley stayed with the group until the early 2000s and was later part of their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley both reacted to the news of his death, telling Variety, “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. He is and will always be a part of Kiss’ legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Frehley’s death marks the first passing of an original member of Kiss.