Peter Criss recently opened up about his final conversation with the late Ace Frehley regarding KISS being honored at the Kennedy Center. He shared his thoughts in an interview with Billboard.
Criss reflected on Frehley’s excitement about the recognition and the emotional impact of his absence during the event.
“That was really hard for me. He was so excited. He was like, ‘Wow Cat, I can’t believe we’re getting this award!’ I haven’t heard him that excited for a while. He was getting ready to tour again. He was also working on his new album. He was really up,” Criss said.
He also shared his feelings about Frehley’s passing and the void it left during the ceremony.
“I got to sit next to Ace’s empty chair, where his medal was. I’m still mourning over him. I can’t believe he’s gone. We were extremely close. It’s been very hard,” he continued.
Criss’ remarks highlight the deep bond he shared with Frehley and the lasting impact of his loss.
Ace Frehley tragically died on October 16, 2025, at age 74 after suffering a severe head injury from a fall at his home, marking a profound loss for rock music and fans around the world. His former bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons remembered him as an “essential and irreplaceable rock soldier,” reflecting on his foundational role in Kiss’s rise to fame and his lasting influence on generations of musicians.
In the weeks since his death, reactions have been mixed as Gene Simmons initially made controversial comments suggesting Frehley’s “bad decisions” contributed to the accident, for which he later issued an apology acknowledging his remarks were hurtful and reaffirming his respect and love for Frehley and his legacy.
