Ace Frehley , former guitarist and founding member of KISS , died this Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74.
The musician was surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey. In a press release, the family said [via Rolling Stone ]:
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his final moments, we were fortunate to be able to surround him with loving, caring, and peaceful words, thoughts, prayers, and intentions as he left this Earth. We cherish all his best memories, his laughter, and celebrate the strength and kindness he dedicated to others. The magnitude of his departure is of epic and incomprehensible proportions. Reflecting on all his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will live on forever!”
The cause of death was not revealed, but according to TMZ , the guitarist was hospitalized, breathing through a mechanical ventilator , and the family decided to turn off the machines: "Sources familiar with Ace's situation told us that he suffered a brain hemorrhage when he fell in his studio a few weeks ago."
Ace Frehley had cancelled all previously announced 2025 tour dates due to unspecified “medical issues” following a recent hospitalization. The musician's announcement came two weeks after he cancelled a performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in California after suffering minor injuries from a fall at home. Ace was also working on his new album, Origins Vol. 4 .
Alongside Gene Simmons , Paul Stanley , and Peter Criss , Ace founded KISS, where he remained from 1973 to 1982, leaving the band due to creative differences and drug problems.
READ ALSO: Gene Simmons opens doors for Ace Frehley and Peter Criss to participate in KISS event.
