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- KISS returns to Las Vegas days after Ace Frehley’s passing
- Onstage moments: short tributes and gestures to Ace
- Fan reactions and support acts leading the tributes
- How KISS presented themselves: unmasked performances
- What the family said about Ace’s passing and legacy
- Official findings: cause and manner of death
- About Ace Frehley: the “Spaceman” who helped shape KISS
- What fans experienced at KISS Kruise: Landlocked
- Memorable lines and the tone on stage
- Community response and ongoing events
The lights in Las Vegas dimmed for a different reason this weekend as KISS stepped back onstage for the first time since the death of founding guitarist Ace Frehley. Fans gathered for a three-day Landlocked edition of the KISS Kruise and witnessed moments of tribute, raw emotion and an unmasked band playing amid a wave of remembrance.
KISS returns to Las Vegas days after Ace Frehley’s passing
The band’s Landlocked event ran across the weekend in Las Vegas. It marked their first live appearances since Frehley’s death on Oct. 16 at age 74. Organizers and band members acknowledged the loss before and during several sets.
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Onstage moments: short tributes and gestures to Ace
Paul Stanley paused the show to honor the musician who helped shape the group. He spoke briefly about the complexities of long relationships in a band. Other members nodded to Frehley in smaller ways.
- Tommy Thayer pointed skyward during a solo.
- Gene Simmons and Eric Singer made brief mentions of Frehley’s early recording work.
- Fans repeatedly chanted “Ace” at different points during the weekend.
Fan reactions and support acts leading the tributes
Audience members led calls for Frehley while opening acts joined in. Sebastian Bach helped guide a chant that echoed through a Saturday crowd. The mood shifted between celebration and mourning.
How KISS presented themselves: unmasked performances
For this event, the band performed without their signature face paint. On Nov. 14 they played an acoustic set outdoors. The following night they returned to the hotel theater for a full unmasked concert.
What the family said about Ace’s passing and legacy
Frehley’s loved ones released a statement reflecting sorrow and gratitude for the final moments they shared. They described his life as full of memorable achievements and spoke of a legacy that will endure.
- Survivors: his wife, Jeanette Trerotola, and daughter, Monique.
- Family message: they remembered his warmth, humor and kindness.
Official findings: cause and manner of death
The Morris County Medical Examiner later issued a report confirming cause of death. The examiner cited head injuries consistent with a fall. The death was ruled accidental.
Key fact: blunt trauma to the head from a fall was listed as the cause.
About Ace Frehley: the “Spaceman” who helped shape KISS
Known for the “Spaceman” persona and distinctive makeup, Frehley co-founded the band in 1973. He left KISS in the early 1980s but remained a central figure in the band’s story and in rock history.
What fans experienced at KISS Kruise: Landlocked
The three-day event featured concerts, karaoke, cover bands, memorabilia and fan contests. Attendees were treated to rare moments and interactions amid the emotional weekend.
- Friday: outdoor acoustic appearance without makeup.
- Saturday: full unmasked concert in the hotel theater.
- Sunday: planned Q&A with the group for Kruise participants.
Memorable lines and the tone on stage
Band members balanced celebration and reflection. Stanley acknowledged disagreements but framed them as part of family life. The brief remarks underscored the complex bonds behind the showmanship.
Community response and ongoing events
Throughout the weekend fans, peers and performers paid respects in different ways. The band’s scheduled activities continued, with a Q&A and other fan interactions planned before the weekend closed.
