Ace Frehley, the influential founding guitarist of KISS, died on Thursday, his family confirmed. He was 74.
While no official cause of death has been confirmed, TMZ—which cited anonymous sources—reported that the rocker was on life support after falling in his studio a few weeks ago and suffering a brain bleed.
The Context
Known for his "Spaceman" persona and distinctive guitar work, Frehley's death marks the first passing among the original members of one of America’s most iconic rock bands. His influence extended across generations of musicians and fans, helping to define the sound and spectacle of arena rock. The loss leaves a significant mark on the history of American music and culture, with tributes highlighting his artistic legacy and personal impact.
What To Know
Frehley died on October 16 in Morristown, New Jersey. In addition to TMZ's report, NBC News cited a now-deleted Instagram post that reportedly stated doctors had advised him not to travel following the fall, forcing him to cancel some upcoming concerts.
He later canceled the remainder of his tour dates altogether. "Due to some ongoing medical issues, Ace has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of his 2025 dates," said an October 6 statement posted to Frehley's official Instagram account.
On Thursday, Frehley's family announced his death. "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," they said in a statement shared with People.
"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!"
What People Are Saying
KISS lead singer Gene Simmons wrote on X: "Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!"
Rush wrote on Instagram: "Absolutely stunned and saddened by the news Ace Frehley has tragically passed away. Back in 1974, as the opening act for KISS, Alex, Neil and myself spent many a night hanging out together in his hotel room after shows, doing whatever nonsense we could think of, just to make him break out his inimitable and infectious laugh. He was an undeniable character and an authentic rock star. RIP Ace. thanks for welcoming us newbies into the rock 'n' roll world."
Pearl Jam's Mike McCready wrote on Instagram: "I heard about Ace Frehley‘s passing from Rick Friel who I played with in a band called Shadow. Rick was also the first guy on the bus in 1977 with a KISS lunchbox to tell me about Ace … just changed my life. I got a guitar in 1978 to join Rick‘s band Warrior which turned into Shadow. We covered 'C’mon and Love Me'. All my friends have spent untold hours talking about KISS and buying KISS stuff. Ace was a hero of mine and also I would consider a friend. I studied his solos endlessly over the years … Just listen to 'Alive', I used his solo from 'She' as a template. Ace jammed on 'Black Diamond' with Pearl Jam at Madison Square Garden … a dream come true for me. I would not have picked up a guitar without Ace and KISS’s influence. RIP it out Ace, you changed my life. Thank you."
Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello said on Instagram: "My first guitar hero, Ace Frehley, has passed away. The legendary Space Ace Frehley inspired generations to love rock n roll and love rock n roll guitar playing. His timeless riffs and solos, the billowing smoke coming from his Les Paul, the rockets shooting from his headstock, his cool spacey onstage wobble and his unforgettable crazy laugh will be missed but will never be forgotten. Thank you, Ace for a lifetime of great music and memories."
What Happens Next
Funeral arrangements and memorial plans have not yet been publicly announced by the family.
Update 10/17/25, 5:20 a.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
