Ace Frehley’s Death Follows Fall-Related Injuries, Canceled Tour
Ace Frehley, founding guitarist of the iconic rock band Kiss, died on September 15th at the age of 78. His death came weeks after a fall at his home led to the cancellation of his remaining tour dates due to “ongoing medical issues.” The incident underscores the potential severity of blunt trauma injuries,even in seemingly routine accidents,particularly for aging individuals.
frehley’s health decline began in late September, following a fall that initially prompted the cancellation of a scheduled performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California. Afterward, all remaining dates on his tour were scrapped, citing unspecified “ongoing medical issues.” While details surrounding the extent of his injuries were not publicly disclosed, the abrupt halt to his professional commitments signaled a serious health concern.
Frehley’s musical career spanned decades, beginning with Kiss in 1973. Known for his signature guitar style and stage persona, “The Spaceman” contributed significantly to the band’s success during its 1970s heyday. He left Kiss in 1982,rejoined for a highly successful reunion tour in 1996,and departed again in 2002. All four original Kiss members shared the stage at their 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, with their last performance together occurring in 2018.
Gene Simmons, Frehley’s longtime bandmate, mourned his passing, stating, “No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me manny times… Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
Following his second departure from Kiss, Frehley continued to record and perform as a solo artist, culminating in a final concert on September 5th in Providence, Rhode Island. His final public appearance came just days before his fall, highlighting the sudden and tragic nature of his health crisis.
A funeral for Frehley was held on October 23rd in the Bronx. SiriusXM host Eddie Trunk has announced, with the family’s permission, plans to organize a tribute show/fan celebration, though details remain forthcoming. The circumstances surrounding Frehley’s death serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability to injury, and the importance of addressing health concerns promptly.