Rock and roll has lost one of its brightest stars. Ace Frehley, the founding guitarist of KISS and the man who brought the “Spaceman” to life, has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed the news in an emotional statement late Monday night, saying the beloved musician passed away peacefully at his home in Westchester, New York. But what they revealed next has left fans across the world in disbelief. “Ace had been struggling in silence,” the statement read. “He never wanted to worry anyone — but his heart simply couldn’t keep up with his spirit anymore.”
Ace Frehley, Founding KISS Guitarist, Dies at 74 After Health Battle
Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist, vocalist, and founding member of KISS, has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed the news on Oct. 16, describing his final moments as peaceful and surrounded by love.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” the family said in a statement shared with multiple outlets.
“In his last moments, we were fortunate enough 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.”
Frehley’s loved ones reflected deeply on his influence, adding, “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.”
Just weeks before his passing, Frehley had canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical issues after suffering a “minor fall” in his studio. At the time, his team assured fans that he was “fine,” but said his doctor had insisted he refrain from travel.
“He is forced to cancel his performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California,” read a statement shared on Instagram on Sept. 25.
Despite his declining health, Frehley had continued working on his next solo project, Origins Vol. 4, showing his unwavering dedication to music even in the face of illness.
Over the decades, Frehley left an indelible mark on rock and roll.
As one of the founding members of KISS, alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, he helped shape a generation of music fans with hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”
The band’s theatrical flair and bold makeup made them global superstars, earning 14 Platinum albums and an enduring legacy.
In 2014, KISS’s original lineup reunited to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Speaking to Billboard that year, Frehley brushed aside rumors of animosity within the group.
“It’s like we had never been apart and we’re brothers in rock’n’roll,” he said.
“The press builds this enigma that we hate each other and all that kind of insanity, but it’s really not true.”
Beyond his work with KISS, Frehley also thrived as a solo artist, releasing 11 albums under his name and his iconic stage persona, Spaceman.
He is survived by his daughter, Monique Frehley, 45, whom he shared with ex-partner Jeanette Trerotola.
