Ace Frehley’s Last Performance with Kiss

Ace Frehley performed his final show with Kiss on December 3, 1980, at Western Springs Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. Unlike Peter Criss’ dramatic exit in 1979, Frehley’s departure didn’t become historically significant until later.

Signs of Departure

The split was a gradual process, beginning in the late ’70s. Frehley officially left in June 1982, but it wasn’t announced for another six months. By the end of the 1980 Unmasked tour, Kiss was experiencing a decline in fame due to overexposure and a shift from their hard-rock roots to pop and disco influences.

Internal Tensions

Frehley noted in his autobiography, No Regrets, that the band’s dynamics changed after Criss left. He often found himself mediating between Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. Frehley’s growth as a songwriter and frontman added pressure, especially after his 1978 solo album outperformed those of his bandmates.

Creative Differences

Frehley contributed significantly to the 1980 album Unmasked, but the band’s commercial success waned globally, except in Australia, where “Shandi” became a hit. Despite a successful tour there, the band struggled with their direction, culminating in the divisive 1981 album Music from ‘The Elder’. Frehley disagreed with this shift and recorded his parts remotely.

Deciding to Leave

Frehley felt disconnected from Kiss and decided to leave, despite objections from bandmates and advisors. He recalls a conversation with his attorney who advised against quitting, but Frehley felt it was necessary for his well-being.

Financial Implications

Frehley’s decision put financial strain on the band. A record deal required all original members to avoid breach of contract. Kiss eventually recorded Creatures of the Night without Frehley, using several uncredited guitarists, including Vinnie Vincent, who later became Frehley’s replacement.

Legacy and Reunion

Although Frehley appeared in promotional materials for Creatures of the Night, he had already left. The split became public when Kiss introduced Vincent with new makeup. Frehley battled personal issues before launching a solo career with albums like Frehley’s Comet.

Continued Tensions

Frehley rejoined Kiss for a reunion tour in the ’90s but left again in 2001. His successor, Tommy Thayer, adopted Frehley’s Spaceman persona, which Frehley criticized. Despite ongoing disputes, Frehley and his former bandmates collaborated occasionally.

Recent Developments

The tension resurfaced in 2023 when Stanley criticized the idea of performing with Frehley at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Frehley threatened to reveal damaging information unless Stanley retracted his statement, but ultimately refrained.

Frehley’s Passing

Ace Frehley passed away in October 2025 after an accident. Stanley and Simmons attended his memorial, honoring his contributions to the band.

Kiss Lineup Changes

An in-depth guide to all personnel changes in Kiss is available, detailing the evolution of the band’s lineup.