Ace Frehley, the electrifying guitarist who helped define the sound and look of one of rock’s most iconic bands, KISS, passed away at the age of 74. Known to fans around the world as the “Spaceman,” Frehley’s innovative guitar style and larger-than-life persona made him a legend in the history of rock music.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York, he grew up in a musical family that nurtured his passion for sound from a young age. At just 13, after receiving an electric guitar for Christmas, Ace immersed himself in music — inspired by icons like Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, B.B. King, Jeff Beck, and The Rolling Stones.
In 1973, Frehley co-founded KISS, joining Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss to create a band that combined theatrical performance with hard-hitting rock. His “Spaceman” character, complete with silver suits and cosmic makeup, became a defining symbol of the group’s identity.
The KISS Years and Solo Success
Ace played with KISS from 1973 to 1982, becoming one of the most recognizable lead guitarists in rock history. His raw, melodic solos and creative flair elevated KISS to superstardom. His 1978 self-titled solo album went platinum, proving his star power extended beyond the band.
After parting ways with KISS, Frehley formed Frehley’s Comet, releasing two successful albums in the late 1980s. In 1996, he rejoined KISS for their reunion tour, thrilling fans around the world once again before leaving in 2002. His final solo work, 10,000 Volts, released in 2024, debuted at No. 72 on the Billboard 200 — a testament to his enduring legacy.
Personal Life and Family
Ace married Jeanette Trerotola on May 1, 1976. The couple shared a daughter, Monique Frehley, born in 1980. Jeanette, an Italian-American actress, stood by Ace throughout his turbulent rock career. Born to Carl Daniel Frehley and Esther Anna Hecht, Ace came from a family of Dutch and German descent and followed the Christian faith.
Final Days and Legacy
In September 2025, Frehley suffered two falls in his home studio that led to severe brain bleeding. Despite medical intervention, his condition worsened, and he passed away on October 16, 2025, in Morristown, New Jersey.
His net worth at the time of his death was estimated at $1 million, but his true wealth lay in his influence on generations of musicians. Ranked 14th Greatest Metal Guitarist of All Time by Guitar World, Frehley’s sound continues to echo through rock’s greatest anthems.
From The Bronx to the biggest stages in the world, Ace Frehley’s journey remains a stellar story of creativity, charisma, and cosmic energy. The “Spaceman” has left Earth — but his music will keep soaring among the stars.