Story perspectives

Gene Simmons Regrets Ace Frehley's Death, Cites Bad Choices

12/8/2025

Summary

Story summary

Gene Simmons expressed regret over Ace Frehley's death, attributing it to "bad decisions" and a refusal to accept help.
Ace Frehley, 74, died from blunt force trauma after a fall in September and was taken off life support on October 16, 2023.
Simmons noted that while Frehley had been sober for years, other underlying issues may have contributed to his death.
Frehley could not attend the Kennedy Center Honors, where KISS was celebrated, and Simmons attended his private funeral.

History

Historical Context

KISS, formed in 1973 by Gene Simmons and Ace Frehley, became a cultural phenomenon with their theatrical performances and distinctive personas. Despite selling over 100 million records, Frehley's struggles with addiction culminated in his death in 2023, emphasizing the critical need for mental health support in the music industry. This loss reignites discussions on substance abuse challenges faced by artists.

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Story summary

Gene Simmons expressed regret over Ace Frehley's death, attributing it to "bad decisions" and a refusal to accept help.
Ace Frehley, 74, died from blunt force trauma after a fall in September and was taken off life support on October 16, 2023.
Simmons noted that while Frehley had been sober for years, other underlying issues may have contributed to his death.
Frehley could not attend the Kennedy Center Honors, where KISS was celebrated, and Simmons attended his private funeral.

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