The music world is mourning the loss of Ace Frehley — the trailblazing KISS guitarist whose riffs and “Spaceman” persona helped define a generation. Frehley passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at age 74, surrounded by family.

Tributes have poured in from across the globe. Original KISS drummer Peter Criss, who was by Frehley’s side in his final hours, wrote, “With a broken heart and deep sadness, my brother Ace Frehley has passed away… He died peacefully with his family around him. I love you, my brother.”

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley remembered him as “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier,” adding that “he will always be part of KISS’s legacy.”

Rock legends like Bruce Kulick, Steve Vai, and Tom Morello honored Frehley’s influence — Morello calling him “my first guitar hero,” while Vai praised him as “the embodiment of rock ’n’ roll attitude.”

Blackie Lawless of W.A.S.P. shared a heartfelt note calling Frehley his “brother and mentor,” remembering their early friendship as a bond that shaped his life and career.

Frehley’s family confirmed he died after complications from a fall that caused a brain bleed. Despite medical efforts, he remained unresponsive for several days before passing peacefully in Morristown, New Jersey.

Just weeks before his death, Frehley had canceled tour dates due to lingering health issues but assured fans he would return to the stage soon.

From his smoking Les Paul to his interstellar stage presence, Ace Frehley’s spirit will forever orbit rock history. The Spaceman may have left the stage, but his music — and his legend — will shine on.