KISS legend Ace Frehley has died at 74 in New Jersey, the guitarist’s family confirmed in a statement today.
Ace Frehley, the original Spaceman of KISS and one of rock’s most influential guitarists, died on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey. He was 74.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” Frehley’s family said in a statement. “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!”
A cause of death has not been officially confirmed. However, in late September, Frehley cancelled a performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California, after suffering what was described as a “minor fall in his studio” that required a hospital visit. At the time, a note to fans read, “He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time.” Less than two weeks later, on October 11, he announced the cancellation of all remaining 2025 tour dates due to “ongoing medical issues.”
TMZ reported that Ace Frehley was on life support with a brain bleed earlier today, however this has not been confirmed by the former KISS guitarist’s family at this time.
Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 and helped define the band’s sound and visual identity during their rise to fame throughout the 1970s. While Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley were the group’s main songwriters, Frehley’s guitar work and larger-than-life presence became central to KISS’s success. His songwriting contributions included fan favorites like ‘Cold Gin,’ ‘Parasite,’ ‘Shock Me,’ and ‘Talk to Me,’ all of which remain staples of the band’s catalog.
Born and raised in the Bronx, Frehley had to choose between his passion for music and sports from a young age. “This is bullshit,” he once recalled thinking after a rough football game. “My hands are too important. The guitar comes first.” That decision would shape the rest of his life.
Ace Frehley’s influence can be heard across generations of guitarists, from hard rock and metal to punk. Known for his fiery solos, trademark makeup, and offstage charisma, he remains one of rock’s true originals.
As this story is breaking, we will update with more information as it becomes available.
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