KISS co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley released their first public statements following the death of former bandmate and legendary guitarist Ace Frehley, with a post on the band’s Instagram.
The two rock icons shared both a joint statement and individual tributes. They reflected on Frehley’s irreplaceable contribution to the band’s legacy and history.
“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” Stanley and Simmons wrote in their joint statement. “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 Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world.”
Gene Simmons also took to his personal Twitter account to share a more personal reflection on his late bandmate.
“Our hearts are broken,” Simmons wrote. “Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
Paul Stanley shared a poignant memory from the band’s early days in his own post.
“I remember 1974 being in my room at the Hyatt on Sunset in LA and I heard someone playing deep and fiery guitar in the room next door,” Stanley recalled. “I thought ‘Boy, I wish THAT guy was in the band!’ I looked over the balcony… He was. It was Ace.”
The tributes from Stanley and Simmons come as fans around the world mourn the loss of one of rock music’s most iconic guitarists. Frehley’s death marks the end of an era for KISS and the broader rock community.
TMZ reported that Frehley passed away at the age of 74 in Morristown, New Jersey, on Thursday, October 16, 2025. He was surrounded by family members during his final moments.
The guitarist’s death followed a recent fall in his studio that resulted in a serious brain bleed. Family reports revealed that Frehley had been dealing with ongoing medical issues. He had already canceled all of his 2025 tour dates prior to the incident. He had been on life support, including a ventilator, for some time before his passing.
The family released a statement expressing devastation and heartbreak over his sudden passing. The statement highlighted the support he received from loved ones in his final moments. It emphasized how much Frehley meant to both his family and his countless fans worldwide.
Frehley was a foundational figure in rock music as the original lead guitarist for KISS. He was known for his distinctive guitar playing and iconic “Spaceman” stage persona. His innovative guitar work and memorable solos helped define the band’s sound during their most formative years. They contributed to their rise as one of the biggest rock acts in history.
