Paul “Ace” Frehley, the iconic lead guitarist and co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, has passed away at the age of 74. His death, confirmed by his family and representatives, occurred on October 16, 2025, following complications from a recent fall at his home in Morristown, New Jersey, which resulted in a brain bleed. Frehley, known to fans worldwide as the “Spaceman,” leaves behind a profound legacy in rock music, marked by his innovative guitar work, charismatic stage presence, and enduring influence on generations of musicians.
Frehley’s family released a statement expressing their deep sorrow: “Ace was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. His final moments were spent peacefully surrounded by loved ones. We are devastated but grateful for the outpouring of love from fans around the world.” Bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, in a joint statement, shared their grief: “We are devastated over the loss of our brother Ace. He was a true original, whose creativity and spirit defined KISS from the beginning.”
Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York, Frehley rose to fame as a founding member of KISS in 1973 alongside Simmons, Stanley, and Peter Criss. As the band’s lead guitarist, Frehley was instrumental in crafting KISS’s signature sound—a potent blend of hard rock, glam, and theatricality that revolutionized the genre. His distinctive guitar solos, featured on classics like “Shock Me,” “New York Groove,” and “Cold Gin,” showcased his technical prowess and innovative use of effects, earning him acclaim as one of rock’s most influential players. Frehley’s “Spaceman” persona, complete with silver makeup and a futuristic costume, became an indelible part of KISS‘s larger-than-life image, contributing to the band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
During his tenure with KISS, which spanned the band’s explosive 1970s heyday and a reunion in the 1990s, Frehley helped propel the group to global stardom. Albums like Destroyer (1976) and Love Gun (1977) featured his songwriting and guitar contributions, blending raw energy with melodic hooks that defined arena rock. KISS‘s elaborate stage shows, complete with pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and flying guitars, owed much to Frehley’s creative input, setting a blueprint for spectacle in rock performances that influenced bands from Mötley Crüe to Guns N’ Roses.
Beyond KISS, Frehley’s solo career further cemented his status as a rock icon. His 1978 self-titled debut album, released during KISS‘s simultaneous solo projects, became the best-selling of the four, featuring the hit cover “New York Groove” and showcasing his versatility in hard rock and heavy metal. Subsequent albums like Frehley’s Comet (1987) and Anomaly (2009) demonstrated his enduring talent, with tracks that blended bluesy riffs and spacey psychedelia. Even in his later years, Frehley continued touring and recording, releasing Origins Vol. 2 in 2020 and maintaining a dedicated fanbase through his electrifying live shows.
Frehley’s legacy extends far beyond his music. As a pioneer in the world of rock theatrics and merchandising, he helped transform KISS into a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless artists in hard rock, heavy metal, and glam metal. His innovative guitar techniques, including the use of smoke-emitting guitars and unconventional effects, influenced guitarists like Eddie Van Halen and Slash. In the broader rock landscape, Frehley embodied the rebellious spirit of the 1970s, bridging the gap between glam rock’s flamboyance and heavy metal’s intensity. His openness about personal struggles with addiction and recovery also resonated with fans, making him a symbol of resilience in the music industry.
Funeral arrangements will be private, with a public memorial service to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to music education programs or addiction recovery organizations in Frehley’s honor.
Ace Frehley is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. His music and larger-than-life persona will continue to inspire rock fans for generations to come.
Ace Frehley was a Grammy-nominated musician, songwriter, and performer best known as the original lead guitarist of KISS. With a career spanning over five decades, he released numerous solo albums and toured extensively, leaving an indelible mark on rock history. For more information, visit www.acefrehley.com
