Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of KISS, has passed away at the age of 74 following complications from injuries sustained in a fall at his home. The rock community has been shaken by his death, and his KISS bandmates Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss have now shared heartfelt tributes to their late brother in rock.

Frehley’s family confirmed on Thursday (October 16) that he “died peacefully surrounded by family” in Morristown, New Jersey, just weeks after suffering a fall that led to a fatal brain bleed. His passing marks the end of an era for one of rock’s most iconic bands.

Stanley and Simmons Honor Their Fallen Bandmate

In a joint statement, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons remembered Frehley as an “essential and irreplaceable” figure in the history of KISS, whose impact will forever echo through the band’s legacy.

“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. Our thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”

Both Stanley and Simmons reflected on Frehley’s lasting contributions to the band’s success. As the original “Spaceman,” Frehley’s electrifying guitar work helped define the KISS sound that conquered arenas across the world in the 1970s.

On social media, Gene Simmons also expressed his personal heartbreak in a moving message to fans.

“Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”

Simmons’ words highlight the deep mutual respect between the two musicians, whose creative chemistry and stage energy helped KISS rise to international stardom.

Peter Criss: “My Brother Ace Frehley Has Passed Away”

Peter Criss, the original drummer and fellow co-founder of KISS, also released a deeply emotional statement mourning his longtime friend and bandmate.

“With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well.

I love you, my brother. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace’s extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time.”

Criss went on to reflect on Frehley’s powerful legacy, both as a founding member of KISS and as a solo artist.

“As a founding member of the rock group KISS and in Ace’s solo career, Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army.

At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace’s family and allow them to grieve privately.

To the KISS Army and Ace’s Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all… Broken… God Bless.”

Criss’s words echo the sentiments of fans worldwide who have grown up idolizing KISS’s original lineup — a group of musicians whose music, image, and energy helped define an entire generation of rock.

The Final Chapter of a Rock Icon

Ace Frehley’s final weeks were marked by health struggles following a fall in his home studio that led to severe complications. Earlier this month, he had canceled all remaining 2025 tour dates, citing medical concerns.

Despite the physical challenges, Frehley had been in the midst of creative momentum — working on music and engaging with fans online — a testament to his enduring dedication to the craft that made him a legend.

His death leaves behind an unfillable void in the world of rock and roll. Known for his pioneering guitar tone, cosmic stage presence, and humor, Frehley’s influence spans decades and generations of musicians who credit him as a major inspiration.

A Legacy That Will Live Forever

As tributes continue to pour in from across the globe, one thing remains clear: Ace Frehley’s legacy as the original Spaceman will never fade. His innovative guitar solos, songwriting, and charisma were integral to shaping KISS’s identity — a band that went on to sell over 100 million records worldwide.

The outpouring of love from fellow bandmates Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss reminds fans that despite years of creative differences and lineup changes, the bond forged during the early days of KISS was unbreakable.

As the music world mourns this monumental loss, fans are revisiting the albums, live performances, and memories that made Ace Frehley an immortal figure in rock history.

The Spaceman may have left this world, but his music and spirit will continue to soar among the stars.