Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, founding guitarist and one of the signature faces of the rock band KISS, died Thursday at the age of 74, his family announced.
Frehley passed away at home in Morristown, New Jersey, due to complications following a recent fall, according to his agent. His family said he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” they 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,” they added in their statement to PEOPLE.
Frehley grew up in the Bronx and joined KISS in 1973 after answering a musician’s ad in December of 1972. His stage persona “Spaceman” or “Space Ace” became iconic, with his silver stars makeup and guitar that looked like it was on fire.
During his time with KISS, he helped the group rise in popularity with hits such as “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” Frehley left the band in 1982, citing creative differences but later reunited with them for tours in the 1990s.
In 1978, he released a solo album which performed very well. His version of “New York Groove” landed on the Billboard singles chart. Over the years, he also led his own solo records and albums and maintained a presence in the rock world.
After his fall in September, Frehley canceled his remaining 2025 tour dates while dealing with medical complications. He was reportedly hospitalized for weeks and had been placed on life support prior to his passing.
KISS bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons issued tributes, acknowledging his role in shaping the band’s identity.
“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” said Simmons and Stanley in a joint statement Thursday. “He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history.”
Frehley’s legacy will live on through his recordings, influence and his place in rock history.
