Ace Frehley is more than just a rock guitarist—he’s a legend who changed the sound of rock forever. As the original lead guitarist of KISS, known as The Spaceman, Ace brought energy, style, and unforgettable guitar solos to the stage.
From his early days in the Bronx to performing in front of millions, his journey is one of passion, talent, and perseverance. Behind the makeup and the loud music is a story of a man who dared to dream big and became a true icon of rock ’n’ roll. But on October 16, 2025, the legend’s talent completely faded; he died, leaving his limitless skill behind.
Although he has passed away, his music and influence continue to inspire generations of rock fans worldwide.
Sounds interesting? Read the complete story of his ultimate journey from birth to death, the legacy he earned through his own hard work, and everything related to him:
Ace Frehley: Born to Rock
Ace Frehley is the legendary guitarist and founding member of the rock band Kiss. He passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 74. He is known to millions as “The Spaceman”. Her unique guitar work, captivating stage presence, and catchy makeup made her a rock icon that inspired many musicians around the world.
Let’s have some real-life facts regarding Ace Frehley:
| Aspect | Details |
| Real name | Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley |
| Popular As | American musician, lead guitarist, and founding member of the rock band KISS. |
| Birth date | April 27, 1951 |
| Birth place | New York City, U.S. |
| Age | 74 ((At the time of death) |
| Gender | Male |
| Zodiac sign | Taurus |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed – Dutch and German |
| Sexual orientation | Bisexual |
| Education | DeWitt Clinton High School, Theodore Roosevelt High School, Our Saviour Lutheran School, and Grace Lutheran School |
| Height | 185 cm |
| Weight | 175 lbs |
| Mother | Esther Anna Hecht |
| Father | Carl Daniel Frehley |
| Siblings | Charles Frehley and Nancy Salvner |
| Profession | Musician |
| Genres | Hard rock |
| Music groups | KISS, Frehley’s Comet |
| Marital status | Divorced (At the time of death) |
| Ex-spouse | Jeanette Trerotola |
| Married | 1978 |
| Divorce | 1985 |
| Relationship timeline | 7 years |
| Children | Monique Frehley |
| Net worth (2025) | $1 million |
| Died | October 16, 2025 (aged 74) |
| Died place | Morristown, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Years active | 1964–2025 |
| Official Website | Acefrehley.com |
Early Life and Background
Ace Frehley was born Paul Daniel Frehley on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York. He grew up in a modest, working-class family. Since childhood, he has developed a love for rock music.
Influenced by artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones, Ace began playing guitar as a teenager. His natural talent quickly stood out, earning him the nickname “Ace” from friends. He was the youngest of three children. In 1964, he received an electric guitar as a Christmas gift. He was always shrouded by music. At just 13 years old, he began playing the guitar. At such a young age, he also joined a local street gang.
About Family
Ace Frehley was born in the house of Esther Anna Hecht and Carl Daniel Frehley, who were completely passionate about the music industry. The devotion sparkles in Ace’s profession.
His father, Carl Daniel Frehley, is an electrical engineer. The family has a musical background that gives full support to their son Ace’s everlastingness. Ace has two siblings, named Charles Frehley and Nancy Salvner. Charles Frehley ran a folk band named “The Bridge”.
Education or Early Interests
Frehley had a troubled childhood and was expelled from several high schools and ultimately dropped out of school completely. From attending DeWitt Clinton High School to Theodore Roosevelt High School, he also attended Our Saviour Lutheran School and Grace Lutheran School.
Turning Points
A turning point came in 1973, when he auditioned for a new band called KISS — arriving with mismatched sneakers, a story that has since become part of rock legend.
Career Breakthrough – From Entering to Succeeding in the Music Industry
Ace Frehley joined Kiss alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. They all created one of the most iconic rock bands in music history. His persona, The Spaceman, complete with silver star makeup and futuristic costumes, became instantly recognizable. He contributed heavily to the band’s signature sound through his sharp, melodic guitar solos and songwriting. Despite creative tensions and the pressures of fame, Ace grew in importance during Kiss’s golden era in the 1970s. His solo album, “Ace Frehley” (1978), was a commercial success, featuring the hit song “New York Groove.”
Major Achievements
Over his five-decade career, Ace achieved numerous milestones. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 as part of Kiss’s original lineup. His 1978 solo record went platinum, and he was consistently ranked among the most influential rock guitarists of all time. Ace was also known for his dazzling stage theatrics. These are smoke-emitting guitar and pyrotechnic solos. Beyond performance, he helped design the famous lightning-bolt “Kiss” logo.
Appearence & Looks
| Physique | Key facts |
| Height | 185 cm |
| Weight | 175 lbs |
| Style type | Glam rock and space-themed |
| Eye Colour | Dark brown |
| Hair Colour | Dark brown |
| Hair Type | Straight, shoulder-length hair |
| Tattoos | “ACE” tattoo on leg, right upper arm, left upper arm |
| Common outfits | Jumpsuits, sparkly or sequined materials, and leather or faux leather pants (during the time on KISS) |
| Accessories | silver platform boots, large, distinctive rings, necklace with a lightning bolt or thunder motif, Silver or patterned armbands and cuffs |
Defined by his spaceman persona in KISS, Ace Frehley’s extraordinary look includes star-colored face makeup, futuristic studded and armored stage attire, iconic platform boots, a signature lightning bolt guitar waistband, and a custom smoke-and-light-emitting Gibson Les Paul guitar.
Personal Life
In 1978, in New York City, Ace Frehley married Jeanette Trerotola. After two years, in 1980, together they welcomed a daughter, Monique Frehley. Although the marriage ended later, he remained close to his family. Outside of music, Ace was known for his love of guitars, sound design. His hobbies reflected his creative, experimental personality — always searching for new sounds and visual ideas to entertain his fans.
Hobbies
The former guitarist Ace Frehley enjoys his hobbies most offstage; here are several of them:
✔️ He once said that he enjoys creating his own computer animation.
✔️ He is very interested in reading about the International Space Station.
✔️ Frehley reportedly traveled to the Ozarks specifically to fish for trout.
✔️ He enjoyed fast car driving.
✔️ As a teenager, Frehley loved building radio-controlled helicopters.
Recent News and Final Days
In the months leading up to his death, Ace had been dealing with health issues following a fall at his home in Morristown, New Jersey. The fall led to a brain bleed, and despite medical treatment, he passed away on October 16, 2025. His family confirmed the news, stating that he was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments. Before his passing, Ace had canceled the remaining dates of his 2025 tour due to his injuries, sparking concern among fans. His death marked the loss of the first original Kiss band member, closing a monumental chapter in rock history.
Net Worth
At the time of his death, Ace Frehley’s net worth was estimated at around US $1 million. Although he experienced financial ups and downs throughout his life — including a home foreclosure in 2013 — Ace remained active in music and touring.
Lifestyle
He lived a relatively modest lifestyle in his later years, focusing more on music and family than material possessions. His love for classic cars, custom guitars, and rock memorabilia reflected his enduring passion for the art form he helped define.
Social Media and Fan Following
Ace maintained a strong online presence, using Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter) to connect with fans, share tour updates, and celebrate milestones.
| Platforms | Username | Followers |
| @acefrehleyofficial | 207K | |
| Ace Frehley | 722K | |
| ace_frehley | 223K | |
| TikTok | @acefrehleyofficial | 36K |
Ace Frehley Likes & Dislikes Things
Let’s find out some facts about Ace Frehley that have been overshadowed over time.
| Likes ✅ | Dislikes ❎ |
| His own classical material | Frehley dislikes the heavy use of technology on stage, including autotune, effects, and backing tracks. |
| He liked the British Invasion bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones | He hates wearing in-ear monitors, which he was forced to use during KISS’s reunion tour. |
| Eric Clapton’s playing in Cream was a major inspiration for Ace Frehley | Frehley was particularly disturbed by a Def Leppard performance he saw, where the band’s amplifiers were not even turned on. |
| He likes writing songs with memorable solos, like his own “Cold Gin,” | He fired members of his solo band who continued to use drugs and alcohol. |
| He loves Led Zeppelin’s first album | In 2018, Frehley punched his KISS replacement Tommy Thayer in the face. |
Unexpected, Heartbreaking Death
Ace Frehley’s sudden death came as a shock to fans worldwide. Reports confirmed that complications from his fall and subsequent brain bleeding led to his passing. His family released a heartfelt statement expressing their devastation but also appreciation for the love and prayers from fans. Tributes poured in from across the music industry, including from Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, who described Ace as “a brother in rock and in spirit.” His music, style, and creativity will forever remain part of rock’s DNA.
Statement from Ace Frehley’s family
The family remarks tribute to Ace Frehley’s final journey is here:
“We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we are fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers, and intentions as he left this earth. We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”
Conclusion
Ace Frehley‘s influence on rock music is unmistakable. His creative and signature guitar style, connected with his iconic “Spaceman” persona. Ultimately, Frehley’s unique contributions cemented his lasting legacy, ensuring his position as an essential and celebrated founding member of one of the greatest rock bands in history. His iconic performance and attractive looks will forever be etched in the memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ace Frehley’s role in Kiss?
He was the lead guitarist and founding member, known as The Spaceman.
What caused his death?
Ace Frehley died because of the complications from a fall from his home studio that caused a brain bleed.
Was he in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?
Yes, established in 2014 with Kiss’s original lineup.
What is his estimated net worth?
Ace Frehley was worth around US$1 million at the time of his death.
