The music world is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, the iconic founding guitarist of the legendary American rock band KISS, who has died at the age of 74. His family made the heartbreaking announcement in a statement reported by various US media outlets, revealing that Frehley passed away surrounded by his loved ones. They expressed their devastation, saying, "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."
Ace Frehley was renowned for his Spaceman persona, a character that became an integral part of KISS's identity when the band was formed in 1973. Alongside original members Paul Stanley on vocals and rhythm guitar, Gene Simmons on vocals and bass guitar, and Peter Criss on drums and vocals, they created a unique visual and musical style that captivated audiences worldwide. The band is famous for their application of black and white face paint to represent their distinct personalities—Demon, Starchild, Spaceman, and Catman.
Frehley's family shared their sorrow, stating, "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!"
In a joint statement, KISS bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons expressed their grief, saying, "We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS's legacy." Frehley is survived by his wife, Jeanette, and his daughter, Monique.
KISS, which first formed in 1973, produced numerous hits such as Rock and Roll All Nite and God of Thunder. Known for their extravagant costumes, including big wigs, black leather, glitter, and platform shoes, the band sold over 100 million records by 2024. Frehley was particularly famous for his guitar that emitted smoke during performances, adding to the theatrical experience of KISS concerts.
In a pivotal moment in the band's history, they chose to appear without face paint for the first time in 1983, marking what is now known as their "unmasking." This move led to a resurgence in their popularity, although they later returned to their masked personas in the late 1990s. Frehley left the group in 1982 but made a comeback during the band's 1996 reunion tour, remaining with them until 2002. The original members were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, solidifying their place in rock history.
Born in the Bronx, New York, Frehley received his first guitar as a Christmas gift when he was just 13 years old. He eventually left high school to pursue a career in music. Reflecting on his unconventional path, he once said, "I'm a high school drop out but here I am a millionaire and I never even took a guitar lesson in my life," during an interview with Metal Express radio in 2020.
In 2024, KISS made headlines by selling their back catalog of songs to a Swedish music investor for an estimated $300 million (£237 million). Pophouse Entertainment, based in Stockholm, acquired the group's brand, likeness, and intellectual property, marking a significant transition for the band as they retired from live performances. However, Ace Frehley continued to perform and released eight solo albums, showcasing his enduring passion for music.
In September of this year, Frehley faced health challenges that led him to cancel his performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California, after falling in his studio. His representatives stated that while he was fine, his doctor insisted he refrain from travel at that time. Subsequently, Frehley canceled the remainder of his tour dates due to ongoing medical issues.
The BBC has reached out to the band's representatives for further comment regarding the loss of this rock legend and the impact on the KISS community.
