The rock legend, whose larger-than-life stage persona as “Spaceman” became an emblem of rock history, died at the age of 74.
Ace Frehley is best known as the original lead guitarist and founding member of KISS. The Grammy Award-nominated musician passed away peacefully in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by his family, who were faced with a vital decision in his final moments.
Ace Frehley attends the Ace Frehley listening party for upcoming new album “Space Invader” at Gibson Guitar Studios on August 13, 2014 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Health Complications Emerged After a Fall
The guitarist’s death followed a difficult period of hospitalization after a fall at his home. Frehley’s health reportedly declined in the weeks leading up to his passing. Lori Lousararian, Frehley’s representative, said his death followed a recent fall in his studio, though an exact cause had not yet been determined.
At the time, he was said to be recovering well, but doctors advised him to avoid traveling despite his preference to continue with his plans. Sources close to the family revealed that he had suffered a brain bleed after the fall, which forced him to cancel upcoming tour dates.
Life Support Reportedly Withdrawn After Brain Bleed
Despite receiving medical attention and being placed on life support, his condition did not improve. After days of uncertainty, Frehley’s loved ones were forced to consider the heartbreaking decision to withdraw life-sustaining treatment.
The guitarist’s family later confirmed in an announcement that he died on the evening of October 16, 2025. “Rest in peace, Spaceman. 🚀,” they wrote.
Ace Frehley smiles while participating in the VH1 Classic Rock ‘n’ Roll Celebrity Poker Tournament at the Flamingo Las Vegas November 2, 2006 in Nevada | Source: Getty Images
Family Devastated, but United at His Side
Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, brother Charles, sister Nancy Salvner, nieces Suncere Frehley and Julie Salvner, nephews Sky Frehley and Andrew Salvner, sister-in-law Michelanne, and brother-in-law Ron Salvner.
Ace Frehley and Jeanette Trerotola kiss at the Revolver Golden Gods Awards at Club Nokia on April 23, 2014 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
The family released a statement saying they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” by his loss. They shared that they felt fortunate to be by his side, surrounding him with love, care, and peaceful thoughts and prayers in his final moments.
Ace Frehley, guitarist for the rock band KISS, performs at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California on August 23, 1996 | Source: Getty Images
They expressed that they will always treasure his laughter and the memories they created together, honoring the strength and kindness he showed throughout his life.
The family stated that the impact of his loss was immense and difficult to fully grasp. Still, they emphasized that Frehley’s legacy will endure through his remarkable accomplishments and the lasting impact he made on others.
KISS Founding Member and Rock Trailblazer
Frehley co-founded KISS in 1973 alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. The group became one of the most recognizable acts in rock music, known for their distinctive makeup, elaborate costumes, and high-energy performances filled with pyrotechnics.
Their influence on the genre was later recognized with their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. Stanley and Simmons later shared a joint message expressing their grief over Frehley’s passing.
Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Carr, and Ace Frehley, performing live on stage at the Pantin racecourse in Paris, on September 27, 1980 | Source: Getty Images
“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,” wrote Stanley and Simmons. They extended their condolences to his family and fans around the world.
During his time with KISS, Frehley contributed to the band’s first nine studio albums before parting ways in 1982. He reunited with the group in 1998 for the “Psycho Circus” album and departed once again in 2002. Outside the band, he maintained a prolific solo career, releasing nine studio albums that further showcased his talent and creativity.
Ace Frehley of KISS attends the 29th Annual Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center of Brooklyn on April 10, 2014 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Known for his electrifying performances and signature sound, Ace Frehley has left an indelible mark on rock music and generations of fans worldwide. His legacy as KISS’s “Spaceman” and as a solo artist continues to inspire countless musicians and fans.
Fans in Shock: ‘Omg No… So So Sad’
When the news of his death broke, the public flooded social media with tributes, honoring the legendary musician.
A netizen reacts to Ace Frehley’s death at 74, posted on October 16, 2025 | Source: Instagram/tmz_tv
One heartbroken individual exclaimed, “Ozzy then Ace! 😢,” while another supporter called the news, “devastating 😢,” while a third posted in disbelief, “What????? Nooooo😢😢 RIP.”
Ace Frehley performs on stage with Kiss in Hartford, Connecticut, on November 25, 1998 | Source: Getty Images
A fourth remarked, “Omg No .. Ace this is so tragic so so sad .. Another Rock n Roll Legend Gone .. Ahh Heaven Has One Hell Of A Band .. R.I.P Sweet Man 💙💙 [sic].” A separate commenter added, “Horrible news. R.I.P. to a legend.”
Another fan wrote, “May have left the stage, but the legend lives on🙏🏽,” while someone else chimed in, “Legends never die … ❤️.” Another stated, “Rock and Roll Icon! May he rest in peace 🙏🙏.”
Ace Frehley performs with KISS at the International Amphitheater in Chicago, Illinois, on September 22, 1979 | Source: Getty Images
Gene Simmons Hospitalized Days Earlier in Frightening Crash
Meanwhile, the news of Frehley’s passing comes as Simmons faced a separate health scare several days ago. As previously reported, he was hospitalized on Tuesday, October 7, but was later released and is recovering well.
His wife, Shannon Tweed, assured fans that he is on the road to recovery. She revealed that doctors had adjusted his medications and were now urging him to drink more water — something she admitted he’s not exactly a fan of.
The hospitalization came after an accident along the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu at around 1 p.m., when Simmons’ Lincoln Navigator crashed into a parked car.
Simmons’ SUV careened across multiple lanes of traffic before he ultimately passed out behind the wheel. While speaking to first responders, the 76-year-old musician admitted he had fainted, causing him to slam into a parked car. This account was later confirmed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
In the aftermath, Simmons left a voicemail with NBC4 Investigates, insisting that he is doing fine.
The musician also took to X to update his fans on the situation. He thanked followers for their well-wishes, saying, “I’m completely fine. I had a slight fender bender. It happens. Especially to those of us who are horrible drivers. And that’s me. All is well.”
The accident came just days after Simmons’ wedding anniversary with Tweed, which she marked with a sweet tribute on Instagram. “Better together,” she wrote as her post caption.
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