Kiss co-founder Ace Frehley has died

Guitarist, Ace Frehley, the wild Spaceman of KISS, has died aged 74, in New Jersey surrounded by family.

The rockstar suffered injuries after a fall at his studio in September and was on life support for some time, AP reported.

“We are completely devastated and heartbroken,” Frehley’s family said in a statement published by The Rolling Stone.

“In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.

"We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.

"The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever!”

At the end of September, Frehley cancelled a concert after suffering what was reported as a "minor fall in his studio".

He was hospitalised, however a statement at the time read: “He is fine ... but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time".

On 11 October Frehley pulled the remaining dates on his 2025 calendar due to "ongoing medical issues".

In 1972 Frehley answered an ad for a band seeking a lead guitarist role. That ad was placed by rhythm guitarist Paul Stanley, bassist Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss. In 1973 KISS was born.

Between 1974 and 1975, the band released three albums -KISS, Hotter Than Hell and Dressed to Kill - and established a cult following of fans who called themselves the "KISS Army".

The band was known for its crazy stage shows with fireworks, smoke and eruptions of fake blood. KISS performed in face paint, platform boots and black wigs.

In 1982, Frehley left the group to form his own band, Frehley's Comet, but rejoined in 1996.

Frehley was inducted with the band into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.