Ace Frehley, Kiss’ original lead guitarist and founding member, dies at 74 - AP News
Original story by: Associated Press
Last updated: Oct 17, 2025

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- Context: Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and a founding member of the iconic glam rock band Kiss, has passed away at the age of 74. He was known for his distinctive galactic makeup and innovative guitar performances. His death occurred peacefully at home in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall.
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- Detailed Summary:
- Ace Frehley, born Paul Daniel Frehley, was a pivotal figure in Kiss, renowned for his "Space Ace" persona and unique stage theatrics, including pyrotechnics and glowing guitars.
- He was part of the original lineup alongside Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss, and his passing marks the first death among the band's four founders.
- Frehley began his musical journey early, playing in local bands and even serving as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix before co-founding Kiss, which achieved massive success in the mid-1970s with hits like "Rock and Roll All Nite."
- The band was celebrated for its elaborate stage shows, distinctive face paint, and the creation of comic book-style characters for its members.
- Frehley's career included periods of solo work and performing with his band, Frehley's Comet, and he rejoined Kiss for a successful reunion in the mid-1990s before departing again in 2002.
- Despite disputes with Simmons and Stanley over lineup changes and the use of makeup, Frehley was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the original Kiss members in 2014.
- His musical style and the band's image profoundly influenced subsequent genres, including 1980s hair metal bands like Mötley Crüe and Poison, and he garnered respect from diverse artists across rock and country music.
- In 2024, Kiss sold its catalog and brand to Pophouse Entertainment Group for over $300 million.
- While the band's last concert was billed for 2023, Simmons and Stanley have indicated openness to future performances and continued promotion of Kiss's legacy.
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