The world of rock is mourning Ace Frehley, the electrifying guitarist who helped define KISS and inspire generations of musicians. Known to millions as “The Spaceman,” Frehley passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at age 74, surrounded by family after complications from a fall.

His death marks the end of an era. Frehley’s soaring riffs and smoke-filled guitar solos became the heartbeat of 1970s rock, blending power, showmanship, and mystery in a way that no one had done before.

Peter Criss, who was by his side in his final hours, called him “my brother” and urged fans to honor his memory with respect. Fellow co-founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley hailed him as “an irreplaceable rock soldier.”

Tributes from across the music world poured in. Guitarists Tom Morello and Steve Vai remembered him as their “first hero” and the “embodiment of rock attitude.” Fans echoed their heartbreak online, writing simply, “Legends never die.”

Though his voice is silent, his influence echoes in every guitar solo played since. The Spaceman has left the stage—but his light still burns bright.