Ace Frehley, Founding Member of KISS, Passes Away at 74

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of the iconic rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed his passing on October 16, 2025, following complications from a brain bleed sustained during a fall in his home studio weeks earlier. Initially described as a minor incident, Frehley's health rapidly deteriorated, leading to his hospitalization and placement on life support.

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Frehley suffered the fall in late September while working on new music, which prompted him to cancel a scheduled performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in California. A statement from his management at the time reassured fans that he was "fine," but advised against travel due to medical concerns. However, by October 6, Frehley announced the cancellation of all remaining 2025 tour dates due to ongoing health issues.

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In a heartfelt statement, Frehley’s family expressed their devastation: “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.” They emphasized that his memory would continue to live on forever.

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Tributes poured in from across the music industry, including poignant messages from his KISS bandmates. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley described Frehley as “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” and acknowledged his significant contributions to the band’s legacy. Peter Criss shared his sorrow, stating, “With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away.”

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Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York, he co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Simmons, Stanley, and Criss. Known for his "Spaceman" persona, Frehley was instrumental in shaping the band's theatrical image and sound, contributing to classic albums such as *Alive!*, *Destroyer*, and *Rock and Roll Over*. His guitar work on hits like “Detroit Rock City,” “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” and “Rock and Roll All Nite” solidified his status as a rock legend.

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Frehley’s solo career also flourished, with his self-titled debut album in 1978 achieving platinum status and featuring the hit “New York Groove.” He formed Frehley’s Comet in the 1980s and continued to release music, including his latest album, *10,000 Volts*, in 2024. At the time of his death, he was reportedly working on *Origins Vol. 3*, a follow-up to his previous covers albums.

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Ace Frehley’s passing marks a significant loss for the rock community and his fans worldwide. His innovative guitar playing, unique stage presence, and contributions to KISS have left an indelible mark on music history. As tributes continue to pour in, Frehley’s legacy as a pioneering guitarist and beloved figure in rock will undoubtedly endure.

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