Ace Frehley, KISS Guitarist, Dies at 74

It is being reported that Ace Frehley, the Spaceman guitarist of Kiss has died at the age of 74. He passed away on Thursday in Morristown, New Jersey. A representative from Frehley, Lori Lousararian, stated that his death was a result of “a recent fall at his home”, though a specific cause of death has not been announced to the public.

Frehley’s family released the following 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. 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!”

Frehely was an integral part of KISS’ success, with his guitar lines inspiring generations of musicians around the world. Frehley wrote “Cold Gin”, “Parasite”, “Shock Me”, and “Talk To Me”, playing with the band from their inception in 1973 before leaving in 1982. Eventually, Frehley returned to the fold for a reunion period with the original lineup consisting of himself, drummer Peter Criss, bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons, and guitarist/vocalist Paul Stanley.

Simmons and Stanley release the following joint statement:

“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 [Frehley’s wife] Jeanette, [his daughter] Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.” 

Main Photo Credit: Jayme Thornton