Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist who helped define the sound and spectacle of KISS, died on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey, at the age of 74.
Circumstances of His Death
According to his family, Ace Frehley passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. His death followed a recent fall at his home that led to a serious brain bleed. Reports indicate that he was hospitalized and placed on life support after the accident, but his condition did not improve. Ultimately, his family made the heartbreaking decision to remove him from life support after doctors confirmed that there was no sign of recovery.
The cause of death has been identified as complications from a fall that resulted in a brain hemorrhage. While the exact time of death has not been publicly confirmed, sources close to the family say he passed away late in the evening on October 16.
Timeline & Preceding Events
On September 25, 2025, Frehley reportedly fell twice in his home studio. Though he initially described the injuries as minor, his doctors advised him to rest and cancel upcoming performances. A few days later, on October 6, 2025, Frehley officially canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical concerns.
In the days leading up to his death, reports surfaced that his health had deteriorated rapidly. He was placed on a ventilator after suffering a severe brain bleed, and by mid-October, he was in critical condition. Family members and close friends remained by his side until his peaceful passing on October 16.
Legacy & Impact
Born on April 27, 1951, in the Bronx, New York, Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley rose to fame as the original lead guitarist and founding member of KISS. Known for his “Spaceman” persona, electrifying solos, and pioneering use of special effects on stage, Frehley became one of the most influential figures in rock music.
He co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The band became a global sensation through their high-energy performances, iconic makeup, and unforgettable hits such as “Detroit Rock City,” “Rock and Roll All Nite,” and “Shock Me.”
Frehley’s distinct guitar tone and creative energy were essential to the band’s signature sound. His 1978 solo album, released as part of KISS’s simultaneous solo projects, was the most commercially successful of the four, driven by his hit single “New York Groove.”
After leaving KISS in 1982, Frehley pursued a successful solo career with his band Frehley’s Comet, continuing to inspire new generations of rock guitarists. He later reunited with KISS for their 1996 reunion tour and performed with them intermittently in the following years.
His passing marks the first death among the four original KISS members.
Tributes Pour In
Following news of his death, tributes flooded in from fellow musicians and fans around the world. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley described Frehley as an “irreplaceable rock soldier” and “one of the most original guitarists in the history of rock.”
Fans gathered outside venues and memorial sites to pay homage to the man who brought cosmic energy to rock and roll. Many lit candles and shared memories of his performances, guitar solos, and the larger-than-life presence he carried both on and off stage.
Final Reflections
Ace Frehley’s music transcended generations, and his legacy remains a cornerstone of rock history. His pioneering spirit, innovative guitar techniques, and fearless stage persona continue to inspire countless musicians.
As the world remembers the man behind the Spaceman mask, one thing is certain — Ace Frehley will forever be remembered not just as a member of KISS, but as one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time.
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