Ace Frehley, the ‘Spaceman’ Who Helped Build KISS, Dies at 74 After Fall at Home
The music world is mourning the loss of a true rock icon. Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist and founding member of KISS, has died at the age of 74 after suffering complications from a fall at his home in New Jersey. His family confirmed that he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones
Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx in 1951, Ace was the heartbeat of KISS’s electric sound. Known by fans as “The Spaceman,” he brought a unique style and cosmic energy to the band’s performances, helping define the group’s signature blend of hard rock and theatrical spectacle. When KISS first emerged in the early 1970s, Ace’s blistering guitar solos, silver-painted makeup, and space-age persona made him instantly unforgettable.
Alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 — a band that would go on to sell over 100 million records worldwide. Their live shows became legendary, filled with pyrotechnics, flames, and music that shook arenas. Ace’s distinct riffs on classics like “Detroit Rock City,” “Shock Me,” and “Love Gun” helped turn KISS into one of the most recognizable and influential rock bands of all time.
In 1978, each member of KISS released a solo album on the same day. Ace’s self-titled record turned out to be the standout of the four, driven by his hit single “New York Groove.” The song became a rock anthem and remains one of the most celebrated tracks of his career. It showed that Ace was not just a band member — he was a force of his own.
But behind the fame came struggles. Throughout the 1980s, Ace battled alcohol and substance abuse, which ultimately led to his departure from KISS in 1982. Still, his influence lingered. He returned briefly in the late 1990s for the band’s reunion tour and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2014. Over the years, he continued recording and performing solo, proving that his passion for music never faded.
In September 2025, Ace suffered a serious fall at his home, reportedly hitting his head in his personal recording studio. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered a brain bleed. Though he initially showed signs of recovery, complications arose in the following weeks. Family members confirmed that despite medical care, his condition worsened. When he passed, they described it as “peaceful,” adding that his final days were filled with love, laughter, and gratitude.
Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow musicians. Paul Stanley called him “a brother in music and a legend who changed rock guitar forever.” Gene Simmons wrote, “The Spaceman has gone home to the stars. Rest in peace, my friend.” Fans across the world are leaving flowers and messages at KISS landmarks, from Times Square to Tokyo.
Ace Frehley’s legacy is one of innovation, rebellion, and timeless sound. His guitar tone was instantly recognizable — fierce yet melodic, loud yet soulful. He inspired generations of musicians who grew up wanting to sound like him, look like him, or simply feel the power he created on stage.
For millions, Ace wasn’t just the guitarist from KISS — he was the dreamer behind the mask, the soul of a sound that defined an era. His music will live on in every power chord and every fan who still raises a hand when the opening notes of “New York Groove” echo through the air.
Rest in peace, Ace Frehley — the Spaceman who finally went home among the stars.
