Paul Stanley, co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, was seen in Beverly Hills running errands just days after the death of his former bandmate Ace Frehley, who passed away at 74 following a tragic fall. Frehley’s death, which occurred on October 16, 2025, after his family made the heartbreaking decision to remove him from life support, has sparked an outpouring of grief from the music world, with Stanley’s public appearance highlighting a return to daily life amid the mourning.
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of KISS, died on October 16 after suffering a brain bleed from a fall in his home studio in September. He was hospitalized and placed on a ventilator, but his condition failed to improve, leading his family to authorize the withdrawal of life support. The news was first reported by outlets like TMZ and confirmed through statements from his representatives, detailing how the injury proved fatal despite initial optimism for recovery. Frehley had canceled his remaining 2025 tour dates earlier in October due to ongoing medical issues, leaving fans concerned about his health. His passing marks the first death among KISS’s founding members, sending shockwaves through the rock community.
On October 18, Paul Stanley was photographed in Beverly Hills carrying a FedEx package and dressed in a black button-down shirt and faded jeans, appearing composed as he went about his errands. This outing came just two days after Frehley’s death, showing Stanley resuming normal activities while the band and fans grieve. TMZ reported that Stanley maintained a neutral expression during the errands, contrasting with the emotional tributes he had shared previously. The sighting underscores the personal resilience often required in the face of loss, even for public figures. It also reflects the gradual process of moving forward after a significant event in the tight-knit rock scene.
In response to Frehley’s passing, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons issued a joint statement expressing devastation and honoring their late bandmate as an “irreplaceable rock soldier” integral to KISS’s formative years. They emphasized that Frehley will always be part of the band’s legacy and extended condolences to his wife Jeanette, daughter Monique, and fans worldwide. Individual tributes from Stanley, Simmons, and drummer Peter Criss further highlighted the deep bonds among the original members, with Stanley sharing a favorite photo of himself with Frehley on social media. These messages collectively painted a picture of Frehley’s enduring impact on his colleagues and the music they created together.
The news of Frehley’s death prompted an immediate wave of tributes from fellow musicians and celebrities, underscoring his influence across generations. Bret Michaels, lead singer of Poison, thanked Frehley for years of collaboration and inspiration, while Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine called him a “first guitar hero” whose riffs and solos left an indelible mark. Other artists, including MJ Keenan of Tool and Richie Kotzen, shared condolences on social media, praising Frehley’s innovation and kindness. The Hollywood Walk of Fame and Kennedy Center also planned tributes, with the latter set to honor him posthumously at its December ceremony, reflecting his status as a cultural icon.
Frehley’s career with KISS began in 1973 as part of the original lineup, where he crafted the Spaceman persona and contributed to hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” He left the band in 1982 to form Frehley’s Comet but rejoined for a successful reunion tour in 1996 before departing again in 2002. Throughout his solo career, he released eight studio albums, including “Space Invader” and “Origins Vol. 2,” and often noted that his transition from band member to solo artist was a point of pride. His showmanship, featuring smoking guitars and pyrotechnics, set a standard for live performances and inspired countless aspiring musicians.
Beyond his musical achievements, Frehley’s legacy is cemented by his role in shaping hard rock and his ability to connect with fans through memorable antics and authentic artistry. In interviews, he expressed pride in influencing many guitarists, with estimates suggesting over 75% of those he met credited him for their start in music. His family released a statement celebrating his laughter, strengths, and the joy he brought to others, ensuring his memory will live on through his contributions. As the rock world reflects on his life, plans for memorials and continued celebrations of his work are underway, offering solace to those he touched.
Looking ahead, the focus turns to how KISS and the broader music community will honor Frehley’s legacy, with potential tributes at events like the Kennedy Center Honors and ongoing fan gatherings. Stanley’s recent outing may signal a gradual return to normalcy for the band members, but the loss undoubtedly leaves a void in rock history. Fans can expect further reflections from peers and possibly posthumous releases, as Frehley’s influence continues to resonate. In the meantime, the unity shown in tributes serves as a testament to the enduring power of music and camaraderie in times of sorrow.