How Did Ace Frehley Die? Understanding the Tragic Passing of the KISS Guitarist

Ace Frehley, the legendary original guitarist of the iconic rock band KISS, passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74. His death has left a profound impact on fans and fellow musicians across the globe. The news of his passing came as a shock to many, especially given that he had recently been dealing with health issues following a fall at his home. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding his death, his legacy, and the emotional response from his family and the music community.

The Circumstances of Ace Frehley’s Death

According to TMZ, Ace Frehley’s death is being investigated by a New Jersey medical examiner. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey. The musician reportedly died nearly two weeks after a second fall at his home, which led to him being placed on life support after a brain bleed. The family made the heartbreaking decision to take him off the ventilator.

A representative for the Morris County Medical Examiner’s office told TMZ that an autopsy was not performed on Frehley. A toxicology screening is underway, along with an external body examination. The medical examiner’s office said that a cause of death will be finalized in the coming weeks.

Frehley’s family confirmed his death on October 16, writing 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.”

The Impact of His Passing

The news of Ace Frehley’s death sent ripples through the music world. As one of the founding members of KISS, he played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s sound and image. His contributions to classic tracks like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City” remain timeless. Fans and fellow musicians took to social media to express their grief and share memories of the legendary guitarist.

Ace Frehley was known for his unique style, both musically and visually. His signature look, including the lightning bolt makeup and stage persona as “The Spaceman,” became an integral part of KISS’s identity. His guitar solos and compositions helped define the band’s sound during its most successful years.

Career and Contributions to KISS

Ace Frehley co-founded KISS with guitarist/vocalist Paul Stanley, bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss in New York City in 1973. Frehley appeared on KISS’s first nine albums, and returned for the band’s 1998 reunion album, “Psycho Circus,” only to leave again. He was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame with the rest of KISS’s original lineup in 2014.

Frehley first left KISS in 1982. He rejoined in 1996 and parted ways with the band once again in 2002 after the conclusion of KISS’s first “farewell tour.” Since his departure, guitarist Tommy Thayer had assumed the role of the Spaceman.

Despite his time away from the band, Frehley remained a vital figure in the KISS legacy. His solo career also flourished, with hits like “New York Groove” and collaborations with other artists. His work with FREHLEY’S COMET and his solo albums continued to showcase his talent and influence on the rock genre.

Health Issues and Life Support Decision

Earlier this month, Frehley scrapped the remainder of his previously announced 2025 tour dates due to unspecified “medical issues.” The cancellation came two weeks after he pulled out of the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California, after sustaining minor injuries in a fall at his home.

When Ace’s Antelope Valley Fair cancelation was first announced, it was revealed that Frehley had had “a minor fall in his studio, resulting in a trip to the hospital.” He was later advised by his doctor to refrain from travel in order to fully recover from his injuries.

At the time of his passing, Frehley was working on “Origins Vol. 3,” the sequel to Ace’s 2016 and 2020 collections of cover songs that inspired the former KISS guitarist.

Personal Life and Legacy

Ace Frehley was born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York. He started playing guitar at a young age and earned the nickname “Ace” in high school. Frehley married Jeanette Trerotola on May 1, 1976. They had a daughter, Monique Frehley, born July 6, 1980. Monique occasionally appeared in public with her father and shared a tattoo in 2023.

Frehley’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. His income came from KISS, solo albums, live shows, and merchandise. Despite financial struggles, including foreclosure and unpaid taxes, he maintained a strong following.

Final Years and Legacy

Frehley’s final years were marked by a renewed focus on his music and personal life. He spoke openly about his struggles with addiction and the importance of sobriety. In a 2024 interview, he credited his daughter Monique with inspiring him to give up drinking in 2006.

“My daughter calls me up and goes, ‘Dad, I’m not hearing good things about you.’ I looked in the mirror and just said, ‘Shit — she’s right,'” he said. “That evening, I called my sponsor and he took me to an AA meeting, and I’ve been sober ever since.”

Frehley’s legacy continues to live on through his music, his contributions to KISS, and the countless fans who still cherish his work. His passing marks the end of an era for rock music, but his influence will endure for generations to come.

Conclusion

Ace Frehley’s death is a significant loss to the music world. His contributions to KISS and his solo career have left an indelible mark on rock history. As fans and fellow musicians mourn his passing, they also celebrate the life and achievements of a true legend. The cause of his death remains under investigation, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike.