The music world is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist and founding member of KISS, who passed away on October 16 at the age of 74 following complications from a recent fall.

Frehley’s death was confirmed by multiple outlets, with reports stating that the musician had suffered a brain bleed resulting from the September accident. He had been on life support before his passing and had recently canceled his remaining 2025 tour dates due to ongoing medical issues.

In a joint statement obtained by NBC News, KISS co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley paid emotional tribute to their late bandmate, reflecting on his profound influence on the band’s legacy and rock history.

“I am devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” Simmons said. “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 part of KISS’ legacy.”

Simmons also posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), expressing sadness that Frehley would not be present for the band’s upcoming Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in December — a milestone he deeply deserved to celebrate.

Paul Stanley echoed those sentiments, writing,

“Ace wasn’t just our guitarist; he was the heart of a sound that changed rock forever. His spirit, his humor, and his unmistakable playing style made KISS what it was. I’ll miss him more than words can say.”

Peter Criss, KISS’ original drummer, shared a heartfelt message on his website, revealing that he and his wife were “with him to the end” alongside Frehley’s family.

“As a founding member of KISS and through his solo career, Ace influenced and touched the hearts of millions,” Criss wrote. “His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army.”

Frehley’s contribution to rock music is immeasurable. As KISS’ lead guitarist from 1973 to 1982, and again during their 1996–2002 reunion, he helped define the band’s explosive stage persona — from the iconic “Spaceman” makeup to his electrifying solos that inspired generations of musicians.

Tributes from across the rock world have poured in. Alice Cooper, Bret Michaels, and Tom Morello were among the first to honor the late musician online, sharing stories of Frehley’s influence and kindness offstage.

“Ace Frehley was a true original,” Cooper wrote. “He made the guitar feel like a lightning bolt — dangerous, exciting, and alive. Rock will never sound the same without him.”

Frehley leaves behind his wife Janette and daughter Monique, as well as millions of devoted fans across the globe.

As the KISS Army mourns one of its founding heroes, Ace Frehley’s riffs, humor, and cosmic energy remain immortal — forever echoing through arenas, record players, and the hearts of those who still believe in the magic of rock ’n’ roll. 🎸🖤