Ace Frehley, the iconic founding guitarist of the legendary rock band KISS, known worldwide as the "Spaceman" persona, has passed away at the age of 74. His family confirmed the devastating news on Thursday, October 16, through a heartfelt statement expressing their profound grief. "We are completely devastated and heartbroken," the family shared, adding that they were fortunate to have surrounded him with "loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth." They vowed to cherish his memories, laughter, strengths, and kindness, emphasizing the "epic proportions" and incomprehensible magnitude of his passing, assuring that "Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!"

Reports from TMZ earlier on Thursday indicated that Frehley had been on life support following a brain bleed. This tragic condition was a result of a fall he sustained weeks prior while in his studio. The incident had previously led to the cancellation of his performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California, initially described as a "minor fall." At the time, a statement on his Instagram assured fans he was "fine," but doctors insisted he refrain from travel. Less than two weeks later, his team announced the cancellation of all remaining 2025 appearances due to "ongoing medical issues," hinting at the severity of his deteriorating health.

Frehley's integral role in KISS began with the band's co-founding in 1973. He remained a core member until 1982, contributing to some of their most successful and influential albums. During his initial tenure, KISS released seminal works such as 1977’s Love Gun and Alive II, both of which achieved significant commercial success, charting in the top 10 of the Billboard 200. He later rejoined the band for their highly anticipated blockbuster reunion tour in 1996, continuing with them until 2002, solidifying his enduring legacy with the group.

Beyond KISS, Frehley embarked on a successful solo career. In 1984, he formed the hard rock band Frehley’s Comet, releasing two albums and an EP. He then launched his debut solo album, Trouble Walkin’, in 1989, which featured a notable guest appearance from his former KISS bandmate, Peter Criss. Frehley remained active and engaged with his musical legacy, even telling Billboard in February 2024 that he believed there was still a chance for the original KISS lineup to reunite, despite the band's supposed retirement. He had recently added more KISS songs, "Shout It Out Loud" and "Rock and Roll All Nite," to his live set due to fan demand, noting their fantastic reception.

Meanwhile, other original KISS members continue their musical endeavors. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley are scheduled to perform at the upcoming three-day KISS Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas event. Earlier this month, Simmons himself was briefly hospitalized after a minor car accident but quickly recovered and was "back to work" preparing for the cruise just a day later. Ace Frehley's passing marks the end of an era for rock and roll, leaving behind a monumental impact on generations of musicians and fans.