Ace Frehley Net Worth: How The ‘KISS’ Guitarist Built His $1 Million Fortune

Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley, the legendary co-founder and lead guitarist of the iconic rock band KISS, has passed away at the age of 74 following injuries sustained during a fall in his studio last month. His family released a statement expressing heartbreak and celebrating his life, “We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate to surround him with love, prayers, and peaceful words. We cherish all of his memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness. Ace’s memory will continue to live on forever.”Ace Frehley’s Net WorthAce Frehley, also known as “The Spaceman,” had an estimated net worth of $1 million. His wealth came primarily from decades of success with KISS, his solo albums, and various live performances, as per Celebrity Net Worth report. While not among the wealthiest rock stars, Frehley had maintained a strong following due to his iconic guitar playing, stage persona, and merchandise.Early Life And Musical CareerPaul Daniel Frehley was born on April 27, 1951, in The Bronx, New York City. Raised in a musically inclined family alongside two siblings, he began playing the electric guitar at a young age after receiving one as a Christmas gift. Inspired by guitar legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy, and Led Zeppelin, Frehley honed his skills independently.During high school, he earned the nickname “Ace” because of his ability to attract dates and help his friends do the same. While excelling in music and arts, he became involved with a local street gang, a path he later described as dangerous. Frehley credits joining KISS with helping him turn his life around. Related News | Ace Frehley Health Update: Viral Mitch Lafon Post Stirs ‘Death’ Speculation | What We KnowBefore KISS, Frehley played in several bands, including The Four Roses, Honey, The Magic People, and Cathedral, the last of which brought him local success. In the early 1970s, he auditioned for a band that would become KISS. Though his image was initially questioned, his guitar talent won over Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, and Paul Stanley.By 1973, Frehley became the lead guitarist of KISS and helped design the band’s famous lightning-bolt logo. Each member adopted a stage persona, with Frehley choosing “The Spaceman” due to his love of science fiction. He became known for his on-stage theatrics, such as guitars that emitted smoke, rockets, and flashing lights.KISS released their self-titled debut album in 1974, with Frehley contributing songs like “Cold Gin”. Initially hesitant about singing, he mostly let Gene Simmons handle vocals. By 1977, Frehley sang “Shock Me” on the album Love Gun and became a more active songwriter for albums like Dynasty and Unmasked.In 1978, each KISS member released a solo album, with Frehley’s album becoming the most popular, featuring the hit “New York Groove”, which reached the Top 20 in the US. Departure From KISS And Solo CareerTensions rose in KISS by the early 1980s, and in 1982, Frehley left the band. Despite leaving, he continued to receive 25% of profits from KISS albums like Lick It Up and Animalize. He then formed Frehley’s Comet, releasing a self-titled album in 1987 that sold nearly 500,000 copies.Later, Frehley released albums under his own name, including Trouble Walkin’, and returned to KISS for reunion tours in 1996, 2001, and 2018. Related News | Shae Cornette Net Worth: A Look At Fortune And Career Of ESPN’s New ‘First Take’ HostDespite a long and successful career, Frehley faced financial struggles. In 2013, a bank in Yorktown, New York, foreclosed on his home after he missed $735,000 in mortgage payments. He had also failed to pay two years of property taxes, along with interest and other fees. These financial difficulties have affected his overall net worth, which is estimated at $1 million today.