Ace Frehley, lead guitarist and founding member of rock group KISS, has died aged 74.
The Rolling Stone reported on Thursday night, US time, that he died in New Jersey surrounded by his family.
The guitarist suffered injuries after a fall at his studio in September and was on life support for some time.
Family members said in a statement that they were “completely devastated and heartbroken”.
“In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth,” they said.
“We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.
“Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
The news comes just weeks after the guitarist cancelled the remainder of previously announced 2025 tour dates due to unspecified “medical issues”.
One of the best-selling bands of all time
Frehley played in numerous bands in New York before answering an advertisement in 1972 for a lead guitarist role.
That ad was placed by rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss.
Frehley got the job and by January 1973, KISS was born.
Between 1974 and 1975, KISS released three albums (KISS, Hotter Than Hell and Dressed to Kill), which built a cult following of fans who called themselves the “KISS Army”.
The band was known for its intense stage shows, which included fireworks, smoke and eruptions of fake blood.
The band members performed in face paint, platform boots and black wigs.
In 1982, Frehley left the group to form his own band, Frehley’s Comet, but rejoined KISS in 1996.
His last performance with the band was at the closing ceremony for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Frehley, whose costume stage persona with the band was the Spaceman, was inducted with the band into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
ABC with AP
Loading