Gene Simmons has broken his silence on Kiss bandmate Ace Frehley's death.
The rocker issued a joint statement with fellow Kiss founder Paul Stanley to mark the passing of their late bandmate.
"I am devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley," the statement, given to The Hollywood Reporter by Simmons and Stanley, read.
"He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS's legacy. My thoughts are with Jeanette, Monique and all those who loved him, including our fans around the world."
Frehley died on 16 October at the age of 74 after suffering a fall at his New Jersey home.
Simmons also took to social media to post a separate tribute.
"Our hearts are broken," he wrote. "Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace's legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn't live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!"
On 6 October, Frehley announced he would cancel the remainder of his 2025 solo tour dates, citing medical issues.