Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, died Thursday. He was 74. Frehley passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall, according to his agent. Family members said in a statement they are 'completely devastated and heartbroken' but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others. Kiss was known for its theatrical stage shows, with fire and fake blood spewing from the mouths of band members dressed in elaborate costumes and black-and-white face paint.

Frehley's persona as 'Space Ace' was instrumental to the band's image, which included hit songs like 'Rock and Roll All Nite' and 'I Was Made for Lovin' You.' His contributions laid the foundation for many glam rock artists that followed. In a joint statement, Kiss members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons expressed their devastation, stating, 'He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history.'

Born Paul Daniel Frehley, he grew up in a musical family and started playing guitar at age 13. Frehley had a historical impact on the music industry, influencing the glam and metal scenes of the 80s, with major acts like Mötley Crüe and Poison citing his work as foundational. His legacy will continue to resonate through the music he created and the fans he inspired.