In his final public photo, Ace Frehley — the legendary KISS guitarist — appeared joyful, unaware it would soon become his last. Shared on September 24, 2025, the backstage snapshot from his 10,000 Volts Tour showed Frehley smiling beside a young fan holding a painting inspired by his solo hit “Rip It Out.”

Dressed in a leopard-print shirt and signature aviator glasses, he gave a cheerful thumbs-up. Fans flooded the post with admiration, many commenting on how “happy” he looked. But weeks later, the tone changed as news broke that the 74-year-old musician had died following complications from a fall.

His family confirmed he passed peacefully at home in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by loved ones. Frehley’s health had been declining, leading him to cancel his 2025 tour just days before his death.

Bandmate Peter Criss shared a heartfelt tribute, calling him “my brother” and remembering his powerful influence on rock.

Though The Spaceman has taken his final bow, his cosmic riffs and electric stage presence will live on — forever echoing through the universe of rock and roll.