KISS Founding Guitarist Dead at 74
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and one of the founding members of the legendary rock band KISS, has passed away at the age of 74. His family confirmed the sad news in a statement released 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,” the family said. “
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’s former bandmates in KISS, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, also shared a statement with Page Six. “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,” they said. “He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy. Our thoughts are with [his estranged wife] Jeanette, [daughter] Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
While the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, reports indicate that Frehley had been hospitalized on life support after a fall in his studio caused a brain bleed a few weeks prior to his passing.
On September 25, his official Instagram account confirmed the incident, noting that he had “a minor fall” and required a hospital visit. At the time, the post reassured fans: “He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time. Ace looks forward to continuing on his tour and finishing work on his next album, ‘Origins Vol. 4.’”
Another update on October 6 revealed that Frehley had decided to cancel the remaining dates of his 2025 tour due to ongoing health issues.
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, New York, he grew up surrounded by music. He taught himself guitar and was inspired by legendary artists such as B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and the Rolling Stones.
Over his career, Frehley became known for his electrifying guitar skills and iconic stage persona, leaving an unforgettable mark on rock music and fans around the world.
Ace Frehley’s passing marks the end of an era for KISS and the rock world. His music, energy, and creativity influenced generations of musicians and fans alike.
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