Full Breakdown
KISS Honors Ace Frehley in First Performance Since His Death
11/17/2025, 8:46:05 PM
Tribute at KISS Kruise: Landlocked Event
KISS returned to the stage for the first time since the death of founding member Ace Frehley, performing at the KISS Kruise: Landlocked event in Las Vegas from November 14 to 16, 2025. Frehley passed away at the age of 74 on October 16, 2025, due to blunt trauma injuries sustained from a fall at his home studio. The Morris County Medical Examiner ruled the manner of death as an accident.
During the opening night of the event, frontman Paul Stanley addressed the audience, stating, “Obviously, before we get going — and we’re going to have an awesome time — we just wanted to take a moment to think about somebody who was at the foundation of this band, and we’re talking about Ace.” He led a moment of silence in Frehley’s honor, encouraging attendees to reflect on his legacy.
Performance Highlights
The KISS Kruise featured a variety of activities, including concerts, karaoke, and memorabilia displays. KISS performed an "unmasked" concert on November 15, with a setlist that included classic hits such as "Detroit Rock City," "Shout It Out Loud," and "Rock And Roll All Nite." Notably, former guitarist Bruce Kulick joined the band for the last two songs, marking a significant moment for fans.
The event also included performances by other artists, such as QUIET RIOT and Sebastian Bach, contributing to a celebratory atmosphere in honor of KISS's five-decade career.
Official Statements & Responses
Frehley’s family expressed their devastation over his passing, stating, "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." KISS members Stanley and Gene Simmons also released a statement, acknowledging Frehley as “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier” in the band’s history.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the tribute, some former members and fans expressed disappointment regarding KISS's handling of Frehley’s legacy during recent events. Bruce Kulick criticized the band for not acknowledging former members during their final shows, stating that they “missed a really huge opportunity” to celebrate the band's history. Paul Stanley later defended the decision, explaining that the final concert was intended as a celebration of the band’s 50 years rather than a tribute to its origins.
What's Next for KISS
As KISS transitions into a new era following Frehley’s death, the band has sold its music catalog and brand to Pophouse Entertainment, which plans to develop various projects, including a biopic and avatar shows. This shift indicates a commitment to preserving KISS's legacy while exploring innovative ways to engage with fans.
The KISS Kruise: Landlocked event served as a poignant reminder of Frehley’s impact on the band and the rock music landscape, ensuring that his memory will continue to resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike.
