• Ace Frehley, original lead guitarist of Kiss, passed away at the age of 74.
• Frehley died peacefully following a recent fall at his home in New Jersey.
• The band Kiss, known for their theatrical performances, sold millions of albums worldwide.
• Family described Frehley as "completely devastated and heartbroken" by his passing.
• He was a significant influence on generations of musicians, known for his "Spaceman" persona.

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the legendary rock band Kiss, has died at the age of 74. He passed away peacefully on October 16 in Morristown, New Jersey, surrounded by family, following a recent fall, confirmed by his agent, Lori Lousararian. The family issued a statement expressing their heartbreak, saying they were "completely devastated and heartbroken," and would cherish his laughter and kindness, according to CBS News, SFGate, and Reuters.

Kiss gained fame in the 1970s for their theatrical stage shows blending hard rock with striking visual elements, including elaborate costumes, face paint, and pyrotechnics. Iconic songs like "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "Detroit Rock City" established their place in rock history, leading to tens of millions of album sales worldwide. Frehley, also known as "Space Ace," was a key contributor to this spectacle, adding a unique flair to their performances, according to Channel News Asia and Le Monde.

Born Paul Daniel Frehley in the Bronx on April 27, 1951, he shaped the identity of Kiss alongside bandmates Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss. His innovative guitar work and flamboyant stage persona left a lasting legacy that would inspire countless future musicians. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, solidifying their influence on rock music, as noted by India Times and South China Morning Post.

Frehley was also known for his solo career, producing music that continued to resonate with fans. Despite experiencing financial challenges throughout his career, his contributions to music and culture remain considerable. Fans and fellow musicians alike mourned his passing, remembering him as one of the most electrifying icons of rock music, according to India Times and India Times.