“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.”
“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…”
People.com
Here’s a look at Ace’s life, legacy and the circumstances around his passing — written in everyday language to make it easy to understand.
Early Life & Rise to Fame
Born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951 in New York City, Ace started playing guitar in his teens.
Wikipedia
In 1973 he became a founding member of KISS, joining Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and Peter Criss.
With KISS, Ace helped define the band’s look and sound: heavy guitars, out-there stage makeup, and the “Spaceman” persona. The band’s theatrical shows — fire, smoke, face paint — became a huge part of the rock scene.
His guitar playing stood out too — melodic but raw, innovative and full of attitude. Over the years he became known as one of the rock guitar greats.
Solo Career & Later Work
Ace left KISS in 1982 to pursue his own music, though he later re-joined at times.
Wikipedia
Among his solo highlights:
His 1978 self-titled solo album (released the same day as his bandmates’ solo works) did very well.
Pitchfork
His 2024 album 10,000 Volts was his most recent studio work.
His influence crossed generations: younger rock and metal guitarists frequently point to his style and attitude as inspiration.
The Circumstances of His Passing
In September 2025, Ace reportedly suffered a fall in his studio which led to a brain bleed. He later was placed on life support.
On October 16, family confirmed he passed away at age 74 in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by loved ones.
In the days following, it emerged that the local medical examiner’s office in Morris County is conducting a toxicology screening and external examination, though no full autopsy was carried out. The cause of death is expected in the coming weeks once all tests are completed.
American Songwriter
Legacy & Tributes
After news broke, tributes poured in. KISS’s Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons released a joint statement:
“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”
Peter Criss posted on social media that he was shocked, saddened and honoured to have been with his “brother” in Ace’s final moments.
Fans, fellow musicians and music publications noted how much Ace meant to rock guitar, to glam-metal, and to anyone who’s ever picked up a guitar and dreamed big.
Why His Story Matters
Ace Frehley’s life and career hold significance for several reasons:
He helped usher in a wave of spectacle in rock — making it about more than just songs, but also look, image and performance.
His guitar style bridged hard rock and early metal, influencing countless players who came after him.
His persona (the Spaceman) showed that rock music could be fun, theatrical and larger-than-life.
His journey wasn’t always smooth, but his returning to music later and continuing to perform was a testament to dedication.
Final Thoughts
When a musician like Ace Frehley passes, it’s more than just one life ending. It’s the closing of a chapter in rock history. For fans of KISS and guitar-centric rock, Ace represented both the flash and the soul of the genre: big riffs, a big personality, and a legacy that will outlive the man himself.