John 5 Reflects on Ace Frehley’s Joy Over KISS’s Kennedy Center Honor

MÖTLEY CRÜE guitarist John 5 shared heartfelt memories of his close friendship with Ace Frehley, the original KISS guitarist who passed away on October 16, 2025, at age 74, during a SiriusXM ‘Trunk Nation’ episode. John 5, a lifelong KISS fan since discovering them in 1977, described Frehley as a kind and caring soul with whom he shared many personal moments, from phone calls to outings like visiting pawn shops and watching movies. He highlighted Frehley’s excitement about KISS receiving a Kennedy Center Honor, announced by former President Donald Trump in August 2025, noting how Frehley was thrilled that Trump pronounced his name correctly. The Kennedy Center Honor, set for December 7, 2025, and to be aired on CBS on December 23, will posthumously recognize Frehley, making him the third person to receive this honor after passing, following Glenn Frey and Phil Lesh. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley also expressed pride in KISS’s recognition, emphasizing the band’s embodiment of the American Dream. Frehley’s death prompted tributes from bandmates, with Simmons noting his lasting legacy. The Kennedy Center Honors celebrate significant contributions to American culture through the performing arts.