Ace Frehley, Founding KISS Guitarist, Dies at 74 Following a fall
Ace Frehley, the original led guitarist and a founding member of the iconic rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74 following a fall at his home. The news was confirmed this Thursday, October 16, by his family in a statement.
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” the family shared. “In his last moments,we were fortunate to surround him with words,thoughts,prayers and wishes of love,affection and peace as he left this world,” they added.
The family continued, “we cherish his fondest memories, his laughter, and celebrate the strength and kindness he provided to others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions and incomprehensible. As we reflect on all of his incredible accomplishments, Ace’s memory will live on forever.”
According to his representative, Lori Lousararian, Frehley’s death was attributed to complications from a “recent fall at his home,” as reported by Rolling Stone.
Earlier on Thursday, TMZ reported that Frehley had been hospitalized in serious condition after suffering a brain hemorrhage.He had been under medical care for days, and TMZ reported on August 16th that his prognosis “was not good,” stating the musician was on life support.
Sources close to Frehley revealed that he suffered the brain hemorrhage after a fall in his studio a couple of weeks prior, forcing him to cancel his upcoming tour dates. Reports indicated that his family had been considering “pulling the plug” as his condition did not improve.
On September 25th, a post on Frehley’s Instagram account stated he was under observation after a “slight” fall, leading to the postponement of some performances at his doctor’s request. However,a week later,it was announced that “due to some ongoing medical issues,” Frehley had made “the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of his 2025 dates.”
Born Paul Daniel Frehley, Ace was a pivotal force in the formation of KISS in 1973, collaborating with Gene Simmons, paul Stanley, and Peter Criss for nearly a decade until 1982.
despite the band’s immense success, Frehley departed due to creative differences and struggles with addiction, launching a solo career. He later rejoined KISS in 1996, remaining with the group until 2002.
