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Rock Legend Ace Frehley Dies at 74 — Family Confirms Cause of Death

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in 1951, he took on the persona 'The Spaceman' (or 'Space Ace') when KISS formed in 1973

Ace Frehley — co-founding guitarist of KISS and one of the most influential figures in rock — has died at the age of 74. His family confirmed that his death came after complications from a fall that caused a brain bleed.

In late September, Frehley reportedly fell in his home studio. At first, it was described as a minor accident, but medical complications soon followed. The fall led to a brain hemorrhage, which required hospitalization. He was placed on a ventilator and life support as his condition worsened over the following days. His family shared that he passed away surrounded by loved ones after battling the effects of the injury.

According to multiple outlets, Frehley died in Morristown, New Jersey. In a statement, his family said: “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to be with him — surrounding him with love, care, and peace.”

Ace’s Accident

In late September, Frehley reportedly slipped in his home studio. At first the incident was described as minor, but complications soon developed. The fall led to a brain hemorrhage, and he was hospitalized, placed on a ventilator and later on life support. His condition worsened in the following weeks, and his family said he passed away surrounded by loved ones.

According to several outlets, Frehley died in Morristown, New Jersey. In a statement, his family wrote: “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate to be by his side, surrounding him with love, care and peace.”

A Look Back at His Life and Legacy

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in New York City in 1951, he took on the persona “The Spaceman” (or “Space Ace”) when KISS formed in 1973. With his explosive solos, makeup and stage pyrotechnics, he helped shape the band’s larger-than-life image and arena-rock sound.

He played on KISS classics such as Alive!, Destroyer and Love Gun, inspiring generations of guitarists. Outside the band, his 1978 solo album produced the hit ‘New York Groove,’ and he went on to release a string of solo projects after parting ways with KISS several times.

Frehley reunited with the group in the late 1990s for their blockbuster world tour and remained active in music until recently. His 2024 album 10,000 Volts marked a return to form, and he had been working on Origins Vol. 3 before his health declined.

Ace Frehley was more than just a guitarist — he was part of a seismic shift in rock music. His riffs, style, and showmanship influenced a generation of artists. Even those who never saw him live felt his presence through records, stories, and the legacy of KISS.