Ace Frehley has died aged 74

In a statement shared with People, his family said: "We are completely devastated and heartbroken. 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!"

In September, it was revealed that Ace was in hospital after suffering a fall.

A statement posted on his Instagram page read: "Dear Rock Soldiers,

"Ace had a minor fall in his studio, resulting in a trip to the hospital.

"He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time.

"As a result, he is forced to cancel his performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California on Friday, September 26th.

"Please go to the fair to support his friends in Quiet Riot and Vixen, and Ace looks forward to continuing on his tour and finishing work on his next album, 'Origins Vol. 4.'

"[rocket and lightening emojis] (sic)"

Ace - whose real name was Paul Frehley - played with KISS from its inception in 1973 until his departure in 1982. He subsequently formed his own band named Frehley's Comet, and even enjoyed success as a solo artist.

Ace discussed his own musical legacy during a 2024 interview with Anti Hero magazine.

He said at the time: "I have to say, almost every guitar player I meet, at least 75 percent, if not more, say to me, 'I picked up the guitar because of you. When I heard Alive! that was it, I decided to pick up a guitar and start learning your songs."

Ace is survived by his wife Jeanette and his daughter Monique.