Ace Frehley, founding guitarist of KISS, dies at 74

Paul Daniel ‘Ace’ Frehley, the founding lead guitarist of the iconic American rock band KISS, has passed away at the age of 74. His family announced his death, describing their heartbreak and devastation. Frehley died surrounded by loved ones, who shared that they offered him peaceful and loving thoughts in his final moments. Famous for his ‘Spaceman’ persona, Frehley was a vital part of KISS with its original members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The band became known for their signature face paint and distinctive characters — Demon, Starchild, Spaceman, and Catman. Formed in 1973, KISS produced classic rock hits such as ‘Rock and Roll All Nite’ and ‘God of Thunder.’ The band went through a notable period of performing without makeup in the 1980s before returning to their masked personas in the late 1990s. Both Frehley and Criss eventually left the group, which continued with other musicians. The BBC has contacted the band’s representatives for further comment. This story is developing and updates will follow.