Ace Frehley, Kiss’ lead guitarist, dies at 74 after being hospitalized due to fall

MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY: Ace Frehley, cofounder of 'KISS' and solo artist behind hits like 'New York Groove,' died at 74 after a recent fall at his home.

His family announced his death on October 16, confirming he passed away earlier that day in Morristown, New Jersey. Just days earlier, Frehley had informed fans about the fall that forced him to cancel several concerts from his 2025 tour.

Ace Frehley’s family announces his death

Ace Frehley’s family described his final moments, saying, “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 continued, “We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.”

The family closed the statement with a tribute: “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.”

Ace Frehley was on life support after brain bleed

In the weeks leading up to his death, reports revealed that Frehley was on life support after suffering a brain bleed caused by a fall.

On September 25, he addressed the incident on Instagram, explaining that he had to cancel a performance scheduled for the next day in California.

He described the fall as “minor” and assured fans he was “fine,” though doctors had advised him not to travel. “Ace looks forward to continuing on his tour and finishing work on his next album, 'Origins Vol. 4',” the statement added.

On October 6, Frehley canceled the remainder of his 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical issues.

Who was Ace Frehley?

Ace Frehley, born Paul Frehley in the Bronx, New York, co-founded 'KISS' in 1973 and created the band’s iconic 'Spaceman' persona. He developed his trademark makeup and stage presence early on, helping define the band’s image before leaving in 1982.

Frehley was the first of 'KISS'’s original four members to die. The founding lineup included Frehley on lead guitar, Paul Stanley on vocals and rhythm guitar, Gene Simmons on bass, and Peter Criss on drums.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted 'KISS' in 2014, recognizing their explosive influence on rock music and live performance. Frehley played a key role in shaping the band’s theatrical legacy, bringing a bold sense of showmanship to every concert.

'KISS' combined hard rock hits like 'Detroit Rock City', 'I Was Made for Lovin’ You', and 'Rock and Roll All Nite' with over-the-top costumes, platform boots, wigs, and intense pyrotechnics.

Frehley elevated the visual spectacle of 'KISS' shows with custom guitars that glowed, emitted smoke, and launched rockets—an innovation that inspired many other performers to enhance their stage setups.

After leaving 'KISS' in 1982, Frehley launched his solo band, 'Frehley’s Comet'. He reunited with 'KISS' in 1996 for their blockbuster reunion tour and stayed with the band until 2002. In the years that followed, he continued performing and recording as a solo artist, maintaining his place as a groundbreaking figure in rock history.