Ace Frehley’s Death Reportedly Linked to a Home Accident Weeks Earlier
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The Passing of a Rock Icon
Ace Frehley, the groundbreaking guitarist who co-founded Kiss and created the famous “Spaceman” character, has died at age 74. His family confirmed the news on October 16, saying he passed away in Morristown, New Jersey, less than two weeks after canceling his tour dates due to “ongoing medical issues.”
In their statement, his family shared heartfelt words about his final moments:
“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.”
At first, no official cause of death was released. Later, TMZ reported that Frehley died from an intracranial hemorrhage, or brain bleed, resulting from a fall he suffered in late September. He was hospitalized and placed on life support, but his condition failed to improve. His family eventually made the difficult decision to remove him from the ventilator.
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From the Bronx to Kiss
Born and raised in the Bronx, Frehley developed a passion for guitar at a young age. In 1973, he helped form Kiss alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. Each member of the band adopted a stage persona, complete with makeup and costumes. Simmons became “The Demon,” Stanley was “The Starchild,” Criss performed as “The Catman,” and Frehley took on the role of “The Spaceman.”
This creative approach, combined with their powerful live shows and unforgettable anthems, turned Kiss into one of rock’s most recognizable acts. During his first decade with the group, Frehley performed on 11 albums, including the live record Alive! in 1975, which helped secure Kiss’s reputation as arena rock legends.
Defining Sound and Solo Success
Frehley’s guitar work was central to some of the band’s biggest hits, such as “Detroit Rock City,” “Rock and Roll All Nite,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” His distinct tone and playing style became a key part of the band’s identity. However, by 1982, creative disputes and personal struggles led him to leave Kiss and start a solo career.
In 1984, Frehley formed the group Frehley’s Comet, a name inspired by his space-themed persona. The band released several albums before disbanding in 1988. As a solo artist, Frehley also scored a hit with “New York Groove,” which became his signature song outside of Kiss.
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Reunion and Legacy
Frehley rejoined Kiss in 1996 for a massive reunion tour that brought the original lineup back in full costume. He remained with the band until the early 2000s and was part of their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2014.
Following his death, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley released a joint statement to Variety:
“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’ legacy. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Frehley’s passing marks the first death of an original Kiss member, closing a chapter in the history of one of rock’s most influential bands.
