KISS returned to the Vegas stage in a way fans will never forget, opening their three-night residency with a candlelit tribute to Ace Frehley. As the crowd held up glowing candles, Paul Stanley led a moment of quiet remembrance for the guitarist who shaped the band’s legacy and passed away last month at 74. The mood was raw, intimate, and electric in its emotion—fans witnessing a side of Kiss rarely seen.

This wasn’t just a show—it was a reunion after their farewell tour, an outdoor acoustic set that carried the weight of loss and the pulse of rock history. Stanley, Gene Simmons, and even former drummer Peter Criss shared words that cut deep, revealing how much Ace meant to the band and their fans.

The candles flickered, the music lingered, and Ace’s presence was felt everywhere, a haunting reminder of the man who helped define Kiss.

Kiss opened their three-night Kiss Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas residency at Virgin Hotels with a deeply moving tribute to their late guitarist, Ace Frehley. Frontman Paul Stanley led the band—and the audience—in remembering the iconic musician, who passed away last month at 74 after a fall at his home.

Before the music began, fans were handed electric candles to create a glowing sea of remembrance. Stanley addressed the crowd, saying:

“Before we get going, we just wanted to take a moment to think about somebody who was at the foundation of this band. We’re talking about Ace. Why don’t we take a moment, a little quiet, think about him looking down on us – from [the planet] Jendell, probably – let’s have a moment for Ace. Candles up.”

A Return to the Stage After Farewell Tour

The outdoor acoustic set marked Kiss’s first performance together since completing their farewell tour in 2023. While Friday’s show offered a reflective and intimate atmosphere, the band promised a more electrifying experience for Saturday’s performance. Fans eagerly anticipated the high-energy, full-band electric set following the tribute.

Remembering a Rock Legend

The passing of Frehley in October left a profound impact on the band and fans alike. Stanley and bassist Gene Simmons released a statement highlighting his importance:

“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley. 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.”

Former Kiss drummer Peter Criss added a personal note, saying:

“With a broken heart and deep, deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away. He died peacefully with his family around him. My wife and I were with him to the end as well.”

Through the glowing candles and hushed moments of reflection, it was clear that Ace’s spirit remains a vital part of Kiss, his music, and the hearts of fans everywhere.