Here’s a heartbreaking update for rock fans everywhere: Ace Frehley, the legendary former KISS guitarist, has canceled the rest of his 2025 tour dates due to undisclosed medical issues. This news comes just weeks after the 74-year-old icon scrapped a performance at the Antelope Valley Fair following a minor fall in his studio, which landed him in the hospital. But here’s where it gets even more concerning: while it’s unclear if his current health challenges are linked to that incident, doctors have reportedly advised him to avoid travel altogether.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/officialacefrehley/posts/1354495122702153?ref=embed_post), Frehley’s team announced, ‘Due to some ongoing medical issues, Ace has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of his 2025 dates.’ The affected shows were set for the Midwest U.S. in October, leaving fans disappointed but undoubtedly supportive of his need to prioritize health.
And this is the part most people miss: Frehley’s cancellation isn’t just a setback for fans—it’s a pause in his creative momentum. Before this health-related roadblock, he’d been tearing up stages with his current backing band, featuring Ryan Spencer on bass, Jeremy Asbrock on guitar, and Scot Coogan on drums. Plus, he’d revealed in February that he’s working on a third installment of his Origins series, a collection of cover songs celebrating the music that inspired him. Origins Vol. 2 (https://consequence.net/2020/07/ace-frehley-new-album-origins-vol-2-deep-purple-space-truckin/) dropped in 2020, followed by his original album 10,000 Volts (https://consequence.net/2023/11/ace-frehley-new-album-song-10000-volts/) last year.
But here’s the controversial question: Should artists of Frehley’s age and stature continue touring at the risk of their health, or is it time for the industry to rethink how we celebrate legends like him? Let’s face it—touring is grueling, even for younger performers. For someone in their 70s, the physical toll can be immense. Yet, the connection between artists and fans is irreplaceable. Where do you draw the line?
As we wish Ace Frehley a speedy recovery, it’s worth reflecting on the broader implications of this news. Are we doing enough to support aging musicians, or are we pushing them too far? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that needs to happen.
