KISS Members Break Silence After Ace Frehley’s Passing — “We’ve Lost Our Brother”

The rock world is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, the legendary original lead guitarist of Kiss, who passed away Thursday at the age of 74. In the hours following the news, former bandmates and fellow musicians shared emotional tributes to the pioneering guitarist whose larger-than-life persona helped shape one of the most iconic bands in rock history.

Gene Simmons: “No one can touch Ace’s legacy”

Kiss bassist and co-founder Gene Simmons expressed deep sorrow on social media.

“Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on,” Simmons wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Center Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”

Peter Criss: “I love you, my brother”

Peter Criss, Kiss’s original drummer, shared a heartfelt message on his official website and Facebook page, revealing that he and his wife were by Frehley’s side during his final moments.

“With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away,” Criss wrote. “He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well. I love you my brother. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace’s extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time.”

Criss also acknowledged Frehley’s massive influence as both a founding member of Kiss and a solo artist.

“Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army. At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace’s family and allow them to grieve privately. To the Kiss Army and Ace’s Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all… Broken…”

Bruce Kulick: “Truly an iconic guitar player”

Former Kiss guitarist Bruce Kulick, who played with the band from 1984 to 1996, also paid tribute on Facebook.

“The news of Ace’s passing is devastating to the world of rock,” he wrote. “It has deeply affected me as well. He was one of a kind and truly an iconic guitar player. His undeniable role in the creation and success of Kiss cannot be forgotten. Not only was he loved by all, he influenced millions of guitarists around the world. RIP.”

Health Struggles in Final Weeks

Frehley had faced serious health challenges in the weeks leading up to his death. In early October, he canceled the rest of his 2025 tour dates, citing “ongoing medical issues” following a fall in his recording studio. The accident led to hospitalization and a brief period on life support.

His family issued a moving statement shortly after his passing, saying:

“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. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”

A Legacy Honored at the Kennedy Center—But Not In Time

Just weeks before his death, Frehley and the original members of Kiss had been named 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees, a prestigious recognition of their cultural impact. The ceremony, set for December, will be hosted by President Donald Trump and broadcast later on CBS and Paramount+. Other honorees this year include George Strait, Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, and Gloria Gaynor.

Frehley had expressed gratitude and disbelief over the honor, calling it:

“A dream come true that I never thought would materialize.”

Though he won’t be there to receive the accolade in person, Ace Frehley’s legacy will undoubtedly be celebrated alongside his bandmates as a trailblazer who helped launch one of rock’s most explosive acts and inspired generations of musicians.