The iconic KISS guitarist, Ace Frehley, has passed away at age 74, according to specialized outlets like TMZ. The legendary rock guitarist died today, October 16, 2025, after being hospitalized in critical condition following a cerebral hemorrhage caused by a fall in his studio.
How Did Ace Frehley, Member of KISS, Die?
Sources close to the musician say that last September, Frehley suffered a fall in his studio, which led to a severe brain hemorrhage. He was admitted to hospital, placed on life support, and put on mechanical ventilation. For days, conflicting reports and rumors circulated about his condition, including premature claims of his death. Finally, his family released a statement confirming his passing, saying that his final moments were surrounded by the love of those close to him.
The family’s statement reads:
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken… in his last moments we were surrounded by love, words of peace, and prayers.”
It has not yet been clarified whether the direct cause of death was the hemorrhage itself, medical complications that followed, or the decision to withdraw life support.
Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley (born in 1951) was a founding member of KISS, adopting the iconic “Spaceman” persona that helped define his identity in rock. With KISS, he contributed to classic albums that shaped the band through the 1970s and early ’80s. Some of his standout songs include “Cold Gin,” “Shock Me,” and “New York Groove.”
Later, he pursued a solo career with his project Frehley’s Comet and other personal works.
In 2025, even before his fall, he had canceled the remaining dates of his tour, citing “medical issues.”
The news leaves an impossible void in rock. Ace Frehley was not only a legendary guitarist, but a symbol of what rock represents: rebellion, authenticity, and power. Today, the rock world is devastated, bidding farewell to one of its brightest stars.
