Ace Frehley cause of death: Paul Daniel or Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of rock band Kiss, passed away at the age of 74. The co-founder’s death marks the end of an era, and as the family statement read, they were “completely devastated and heartbroken.” “The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions and beyond comprehension,” it added.
As per Frehley’s family, the ‘Spaceman’ guitarist and occasional vocalist faced a complicated head injury. Last month, in September, he fell in his home studio and sustained a brain injury. Under constant medical care for several weeks, he even had to cancel his 2025 World Tour mid-way. After being on prolonged life support, due to other health issues, too, the rock legend passed away in New Jersey.
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… pic.twitter.com/y19anvZXbz
— KISS (@kiss) October 17, 2025
Who was Ace Frehley?
Born in 1951, Frehley grew up in a musical family and began playing guitar at the age of 13. Inspired by guitar icons like Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. Officially named Paul Daniels, his name, ‘Ace’, came from his teenage reputation for arranging successful dates for his friends.
Frehley, the icon of 1970 rock, adopted the persona of ‘The Space Ace’, and completed his look with silver makeup and star motifs. His dazzling guitar solos were exceptionally famous for the use of special effects, like smoke-emitting Les Paul guitars, and stage flair. He responded to an audition ad in 1973 by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, and eventually met his founding members of KISS. He was also part of hits like ‘Cold Gin’, ‘Shock Me’, and ‘Rocket Ride’.
After quitting the band in 1982, Frehley’s singles were huge hits too. He debuted his solo album in 1978 – ‘New York Groove’. His last solo album, 10,000 Volts, came out in 2024, showing his continued passion for music.
Ace Frehley’s net worth
Several reports estimate Ace Frehley’s net worth to be nearly $1 million, while others claim it to be $15 million. However, given his uneven track record at the box office and well-documented financial hiccups, complete with mortgages and tax troubles, the more modest estimates likely paint a truer picture of his actual net worth.
The rock legend is survived by his daughter Monique and wife Jeanette. However, he has also acknowledged struggling with substance abuse, legal issues, and financial instability throughout his life.