(KRON) — Legendary founding KISS guitarist Ace Frehley has died at the age of 74. He died peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, according to his agent.
Earlier on Thursday TMZ reported he was on life support, and the prognosis was “not good.” Frehley had taken a fall in his studio last month and was hospitalized.
Last week, a post on his official Instagram announced that Frehley would be canceling all his remaining tour dates in 2025 due to “ongoing medical issues.” TMZ, citing sources familiar with the situation, is reporting that Frehley suffered a brain bleed as a result of the fall and that his health has not improved.
Family members said in a statement that they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others.
Frehley was a founding member of the legendary rock band KISS, along with bassist Gene Simmons, frontman Paul Stanley, and drummer Peter Criss. His iconic initial stint with the famously costumed and grease-painted band lasted from 1973 until 1982.
A lead guitarist in the classic 1970s “guitar hero” mode, Frehley embodied his “Spaceman” persona on stage with his silver makeup and Gibson Les Paul.
He departed the band amid personal differences and issues with substance abuse, later rejoining in 1996 for a reunion tour. He remained with the group until 2002. Outside of KISS, Frehley made several albums on his own including 1987’s “Frehley’s Comet,” and most recently, 2024,’s “10,000 Volts.”
Frehley, along with the rest of KISS, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
