Mike Portnoy recently shared an emotional tribute following the passing of KISS guitarist Ace Frehley. He expressed his deep admiration for the legendary musician in a statement posted on Instagram.
The Dream Theater co-founder reflected on Frehley’s influence on his life and career. He described him as one of his biggest guitar heroes.
“Absolutely gutted to hear of the passing of one of my biggest guitar heroes,” Portnoy said. “Ace Frehley was always the King of Cool…he played with such swagger…and you can literally sing every one of his solos from the first 6 KISS albums they were so melodic.”
Portnoy shared a personal memory from his childhood that highlighted the depth of his admiration for the guitarist.
“When I was in elementary school in the 70’s, I loved him so much that even though I was a drummer, my nickname at school was Ace (even a few of my school teachers called me that!),” he continued. “One of the most cherished memories of my career I’ll ever have was getting to play with him at Eddie Trunk’s 30th Anniversary Bash back in 2013 (along with Peter Criss as well).”
The drummer concluded his tribute with condolences to those close to Frehley.
“My condolences go out to his family, friends and bandmates,” he said. “He was surely one of kind and will always be one of my biggest guitar heroes!”
Frehley’s death marks a significant loss for the rock music community. He was a founding member and original lead guitarist of KISS.
Times of India reported that Frehley passed away peacefully at age 74 on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey. He died following complications from a recent fall that caused a brain bleed. The fall occurred in late September 2025 and was initially described as minor. However, it resulted in severe health complications that forced him to cancel remaining tour dates.
6ABC noted that Frehley was a co-founder of KISS in 1973. He was known for his “Spaceman” persona, elaborate stage makeup, and pioneering guitar effects including pyrotechnics. He was inducted with KISS into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, cementing his legacy as one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
His death represents the first loss among the original KISS founding members. KSL stated that bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons expressed deep sorrow and acknowledged his essential role in the band’s history. His family confirmed his death, expressing devastation but also cherishing his laughter and kindness.
Frehley’s influence extended far beyond KISS, inspiring countless musicians across generations. This included drummers like Portnoy who admired his melodic approach to guitar solos and his undeniable stage presence that helped define the theatrical rock genre.
