Rock legend Ace Frehley, iconic KISS Guitarist, dies at 74

The entertainment world is mourning the death of Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and a founding member of the rock band KISS.

The renowned musician's family confirmed that "The Spaceman" died on Thursday, October 16, at the age of 74 in Morristown, New Jersey, following complications from a fall he suffered last month.

It has been reported that Frehley fell in his recording studio and hit his head in late September, leading him to be hospitalised for several weeks and put on life support after suffering a brain bleed.

His family said in a statement: “We are completely devastated and heartbroken.” 

“In his last moments, 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. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.

They added: “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!”

The rock star, whose real name is Paul Daniel Frehley, co-founded KISS in 1973 with singer Paul Stanley, bassist and part-time singer Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss.

Following his passing, Stanley and Simmons expressed their devastation in a joint statement.

“He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history,” they said.

“He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy,” they said, paying tribute to “all those who loved him, including our fans around the world”.

Meanwhile, Criss also wrote on X: “I’m shocked!!! My friend ... I love you!”

Frehley was a vital part of KISS, even designing the band's distinctive double-lightning-bolt logo. He was also credited for creating the "Spaceman" stage persona, which featured silver stars painted on his eyes.

However, he left KISS in 1982 due to creative differences as well as reported struggles with substance abuse, before rejoining for a successful reunion tour in 1996, remaining with them until 2002.

Frehley was also a successful solo artist, with his 1978 self-titled solo album receiving widespread praise. 

After leaving KISS, Frehley also formed his own band, Frehley's Comet.