The relationship between original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley and his former bandmates has often been rocky, and his latest comments prove that the distance between them is still very much intact. In a new interview with Guitar World magazine, Frehley revealed that he was asked to participate in the upcoming “KISS Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas” but ultimately declined.
The event, which will run from November 14–16, 2025, is set to take place at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas. It’s a special fan-focused experience organized by KISS co-founders Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons in collaboration with co-producers Pophouse, Topeka, and the music-led destination experience company Vibee. For fans, this will be a chance to immerse themselves in KISS’s legacy after the band officially retired from touring in 2023.
When asked about the invitation, Frehley did not mince words.
“They asked me and I declined,” he told Guitar World. “There’s no way I’m gonna be involved with that, you know?”
Ace Frehley’s Thoughts on the Madison Square Garden Farewell Shows
KISS officially played their final two concerts in December 2023 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Those shows were historic, marking the conclusion of one of the most successful and theatrical careers in rock history. However, none of the former members — including Frehley or drummer Peter Criss — made guest appearances.
Frehley believes this was a missed opportunity. He continued in his Guitar World interview:
“Their biggest mistake is that they should have done that at Madison Square Garden, not in Las Vegas in a 5000-seater, or whatever it is.”
For Frehley, the symbolism of Madison Square Garden was undeniable. As KISS originated in New York City, the venue was a natural place to celebrate the band’s legacy. By not including former members in those final performances, he suggests, the band overlooked a historic chance to bring closure for fans and musicians alike.
The Legacy of KISS and the Evolution of the Kruise
The KISS Kruise has been a beloved tradition for over a decade, originally hosted at sea with thousands of fans boarding ships to enjoy live music, meet-and-greets, and themed events. The concept of “Landlocked in Vegas” represents the next evolution, moving the party onto solid ground in one of the world’s most entertainment-driven cities.
While many fans are excited about this new chapter, Frehley’s absence will certainly be felt. His influence on the band’s classic era, from his iconic guitar solos to his songwriting contributions, shaped much of what fans love about early KISS. His decision not to participate underscores the ongoing division between him and the band’s current leadership under Stanley and Simmons.
A History of Tension
Ace Frehley has had a complicated relationship with KISS since leaving the group. He first departed in 1982 but returned for the band’s highly successful reunion tour in 1996. That lineup — featuring Frehley, Peter Criss, Paul Stanley, and Gene Simmons — thrilled fans worldwide and cemented KISS’s status as one of the greatest live acts in rock.
However, creative differences, business disputes, and personal clashes led Frehley to part ways with KISS once again in the early 2000s. Since then, speculation has often surrounded whether he might rejoin for special appearances. But as his latest comments make clear, the divide remains strong.
Why Frehley’s Refusal Matters to Fans
For lifelong KISS fans, Frehley’s decision is bittersweet. On one hand, the upcoming Vegas event promises to deliver unforgettable experiences with Stanley and Simmons leading the charge. On the other, the lack of original member participation leaves a noticeable gap.
Frehley’s words highlight what many fans have long felt — that the final shows at Madison Square Garden could have been the perfect opportunity for a reunion, even if only for a few songs. A shared moment between past and present members might have served as the ultimate tribute to KISS’s decades-spanning legacy.
What’s Next for Ace Frehley
While he won’t be part of KISS Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas, Ace Frehley continues to maintain his own solo career. Known for his distinctive guitar tone and larger-than-life personality, he has built a loyal following outside of KISS. Fans of “Spaceman” can expect more live performances and music projects as he continues to embrace his independence.
At the same time, Frehley remains an important figure in KISS history. Whether he is performing solo or reflecting on the band’s legacy, his perspective offers a vital piece of the puzzle that shaped one of rock’s most influential groups.
