Ace Frehley, Kiss Guitarist and Founding Member, Dies at 74

Published: October 17, 2025, 22:45 EDT

Ace Frehley, the pioneering guitarist and co-founder of the legendary rock band Kiss, has died at the age of 74. Known to fans worldwide as the “Spaceman,” Frehley helped define Kiss’s explosive stage presence and distinctive sound, leaving a lasting mark on rock history.

A Rock Icon Passes Away

Ace Frehley died Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by his family, according to his agent. The musician’s death followed complications from a recent fall. Family members said in a statement that they were “completely devastated and heartbroken,” but would continue to celebrate his humor, creativity, and kindness.

Frehley’s family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans around the world, noting that his influence on rock music “will live forever.”

The Guitarist Behind Kiss’s Signature Sound

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx, New York, in 1951, Ace Frehley co-founded Kiss in 1973 alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. As the band’s lead guitarist, Frehley became known for his electrifying solos, signature smoking guitar effects, and his space-themed persona that captivated audiences worldwide.

Kiss became one of the most recognizable acts in rock music, celebrated for their theatrical performances featuring pyrotechnics, face paint, and elaborate costumes. Their shows combined spectacle and musicianship, helping define the glam rock era of the 1970s.

Among Kiss’s most enduring hits are “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “Shout It Out Loud.” Frehley’s distinct guitar style and songwriting contributions helped propel the band to international fame, with millions of albums sold across decades.

The “Spaceman” Persona and Cultural Legacy

Each member of Kiss adopted a larger-than-life character, with Frehley famously portraying “Space Ace” — also known as “The Spaceman.” His image, marked by metallic costumes and celestial motifs, became one of the band’s most iconic symbols.

Kiss’s innovative branding extended far beyond their music. The group licensed its imagery across a wide range of merchandise, from comic books and action figures to pinball machines and apparel. By the mid-1970s, Kiss had become both a musical powerhouse and a pop-culture phenomenon.

Frehley’s performances often included dazzling light effects and his trademark smoke-emitting guitar, adding to the mystique that defined Kiss’s onstage identity. His influence extended to generations of guitarists who cited his blend of showmanship and technical skill as inspiration.

Departure, Solo Career, and Reunion

Frehley left Kiss in 1982 to pursue a solo career, releasing several albums including “Frehley’s Comet” and “Trouble Walkin’.” His solo work allowed him to experiment with different styles while maintaining his rock roots.

He rejoined Kiss for their highly successful reunion tour in 1996, reigniting fan enthusiasm and reaffirming the band’s legacy. Despite lineup changes in later years, Frehley’s contributions remained central to Kiss’s identity and sound.

In 2014, Frehley and his bandmates were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking a milestone that recognized the group’s profound cultural and musical impact.

Remembering a Rock Legend

Ace Frehley’s passing marks the first among Kiss’s original four founding members — a group that continues to influence musicians and fans alike. Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss have yet to comment publicly, but tributes from fellow artists and fans have flooded social media platforms.

Frehley is remembered as a pioneering guitarist whose creativity helped shape the face of modern rock. His blend of technical prowess, humor, and cosmic flair ensured that his legacy — much like his “Spaceman” persona — will remain timeless.