Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and one of the most iconic guitarists in rock and roll, died Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, his family announced. He was 74.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” the family said. “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!”
Frehley died weeks after he took a fall in his studio toward the end of September. At the time, an announcement on his Facebook page said he “had a minor fall” but that he was “fine,” adding that he’d have to cancel a performance at the Antelope Valley Fair. On Oct. 6, a second announcement was posted noting that he had to cancel the remainder of his 2025 shows due to “ongoing medical issues.”
Frehley was born on April 27, 1951, and grew up in the Bronx, learning the guitar as a teenager. He joined New York City-based Kiss in 1972 alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and Peter Criss, taking on his famed “Spaceman” persona to match their colorful makeup.
Known for his virtuosic playing and long associated with his unique three-pickup Gibson Les Paul, Frehley — who was influenced by classic bands like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones — had a huge impact on hard rock and heavy metal.
Frehley appeared on Kiss’ first nine albums, and after leaving the group in 1982, he returned for their 1998 reunion album, Psycho Circus, only to leave again in 2002. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Kiss in 2014.
His signature sound can be found across the band’s discography, with some of his best work on Alive!, Kiss’ 1975 breakthrough live album.
Frehley also released nine solo studio albums, with the eponymous first one going platinum in 1978. His most-recent album, 10,000 Volts, came out in February 2024.
Survivors include his wife, Jeanette; daughter Monique; brother Charles; sister Nancy; nieces Suncere and Julie; nephews Sky and Andrew; sister-in-law Michelanne; and brother-in-law Ron.
