Kiss co-founder guitarist Ace Frehley has died (3 photos)

The American guitarist played with Kiss from its inception. He performed as the character Space Ace, which made him the face of the band.





American musician, guitarist, and founding member of the legendary rock band Kiss, Ace Frehley, has died at the age of 74. Variety reported his death, citing his family.

"We are utterly devastated and heartbroken. In his final moments, we were fortunate to surround him with loving, caring, and comforting words, thoughts, prayers, and intentions as he departed this life," the statement reads.

In late September, Frehley suffered injuries in a fall in his California studio and was forced to cancel his appearance at the Antelope Valley Fair. Despite assurances from his representatives of a speedy recovery, the musician later canceled all concerts until the end of 2025 due to ongoing health issues. The guitarist's death is also believed to be related to the fall.

Ace Frehley joined Kiss in 1972, shortly after its founding by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. He became a key member of the band, designed the famous Kiss logo, and created the band's memorable "Spaceman" stage persona—with silver stars on his face. Frehley was the author of such hits as "Cold Gin," "Parasite," "Shock Me," and "Talk to Me."



In 1982, he left the band and formed his own group, Frehley's Comet, and in 1996, he returned to Kiss, with which he performed until 2002. Of the four founding members, Frehley was considered the most successful solo artist—his song "New York Groove" became an international hit in 1978.



In 2014, Ace Frehley and his bandmates were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2024, he released his final album, 10,000 Volts, which topped the Billboard charts. His name will forever remain in rock history as a symbol of an era that united the energy, style, and rebellious spirit of generations.