Ace Frehley of KISS Passes Away at 74

Ace Frehley, the guitarist of the legendary rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74. He was popularly known as the “Spaceman” and “Space Ace.” His passing follows a brain bleed that occurred after he fell in his studio last month. Life support was withdrawn on Thursday.

“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,” his family shared in a statement.

“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 was one of the founding members of KISS, which he established alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss in New York City back in 1973. The band became famous for their extravagant stage performances and signature face paint, releasing hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” “Beth,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”

He left KISS in 1982, citing creative differences and personal struggles, particularly around substance abuse. However, Frehley reunited with the band for their successful Alive/Worldwide Reunion Tour in 1996 and later contributed to the Psycho Circus album in 1998, before departing once more in 2002. His role was ultimately taken over by Tommy Thayer, who emulated Frehley’s signature style.

In a past interview with Rolling Stone, he acknowledged his loyal fanbase, saying, “I have a lot of diehard fans.”

“Ace Frehley fans and KISS fans are the greatest fans in the world. They’ve always been there for me through ups and downs. My life has been a roller coaster ride, but somehow, I’ve always been able to land on my feet and still play the guitar,” he expressed.

His bandmates, Simmons and Stanley, expressed their sadness over his death. They stated, “We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”

Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeannette Trerotola, and their daughter, Monique.