Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley dies at 74 just weeks after cancelling tour dates

Paul Stanley, right, and Ace Frehley of the rock band Kiss performing in 1998 (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of the rock group Kiss, whose hard-driving sound, stage theatrics and iconic makeup created one of the most popular and groundbreaking bands of all time, died on Thursday at age 74, his family said.

A representative for Frehley, Lori Lousararian, attributed his death to a recent fall at his home, Rolling Stone magazine said.

"We are completely devastated and heartbroken," Frehley's family said in a statement, adding that their loving, caring words and prayers surrounded him in his last moments.

"The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehen

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