Rock music bids farewell to Ace Frehley, founding guitarist of KISS

Casablanca Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The rock world is in mourning following the death of Ace Frehley, the original guitarist and iconic figure of the band KISS. Frehley was 74 years old when he died on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, following complications from a fall that caused a cerebral hemorrhage.

Frehley, known as “The Spaceman” for his signature silver makeup and cosmic aura onstage, had recently canceled the remainder of his tour dates due to “ongoing medical issues.”

His fall occurred weeks earlier in his studio, when he suffered two consecutive accidents that caused a cerebral hemorrhage and landed him in the hospital. His family decided to remove him from life support hours later, while his loved ones were with him.

As a founding member of KISS, Frehley left his mark on iconic records like Destroyer and Alive!, and was largely responsible for the spatial, theatrical sound that defined the group's aesthetic. Throughout his career, he also pursued solo projects, including his self-titled 1978 album featuring the hit single "New York Groove."

Reactions were swift: Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, surviving members of KISS, remembered him as an "irreplaceable rock soldier" and assured that his legacy will remain in the hearts of the band and its fans. Peter Criss also expressed his grief and affirmed that he had been by his side until his final moments.

His death represents a profound loss for global rock culture. Ace Frehley was the first original member of KISS to pass away, marking the close of a golden era.

For more stories like this, follow More Latin.

Sources: