photo by Lynn Goldsmith Ace Frehley in Studio, 1980
For print pricing and availability please call our galleries:
SoHo, NYC: 212-941-8770
Sunset Marquis: 310-881-6025
Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and Peter Criss have commented on the death of their fellow KISS co-founder Ace Frehley. The legendary guitarist died after sustaining injuries in a fall last month, his family confirmed Thursday (October 16).
In a statement, Stanley and Simmons said: “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.”
Simmons also wrote on X: “Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace‘s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!”
In a separate statement, Criss wrote: “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.
“I love you, my brother. My love and prayers go out to Jeanette, Monique, Charlie and Nancy and all of Ace‘s extended family, bandmates, fans and friends. May the Lord comfort you at this difficult time.
“As a founding member of the rock group KISS and in Ace‘s solo career, Ace influenced and touch the hearts of millions of people. His legacy will live on in the music industry and in the hearts of the KISS Army.
“At this time I ask all of you to please be respectful to Ace‘s family and allow them to grieve privately.
“To the KISS Army and Ace‘s Rock Soldiers, my heart is with you all… Broken… God Bless.”
Frehley passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall at his home.