Danny Francis dead: KISS struck by tragedy as beloved pal dies days after rock legend

Legendary rockers KISS have suffered another devastating loss just days after 76-year-old bandmate Ace Frehley was buried on Wednesday following a private memorial held on October 21 at Sinatra Memorial Home in Yonkers, New York. The star had died on October 16 following a bleed on the brain. The band's singer Paul Stanley took to X to confirm their head of security Danny Francis passed away after a "brutal fight" with liver cancer.

Alongside an image of Danny taken as he was hard at work during one of the band's shows, 73-year-old Paul wrote a touching caption: "Danny Francis, my dear friend, assistant and so much more for 30 years of tours and life has died after a brutal fight with liver cancer. He was loved by Erin and all my children and his kindness was given to everyone he came in contact with. My condolences to his entire family."

Fans and friends flooded Paul's comments with condolences and their own memories of Danny. "I have had multiple interactions with Danny over the past 17 years , he was the kindest and sweetest man alive. He adored my kids and they adored him," one wrote.

"Deepest condolences Paul! 30 plus years of friendship is rare, and an absolute gift. Bless his family and friends with comfort during this difficult time," another added.

A third chimed in: "So sorry for your loss people don't realise touring musicians spend more time year after year with their band/crew than their families. The Road family bond is very strong. Prayers for his family and many friends."

A fourth shared: "He was the best. I shamelessly found him up at the Toledo show a few years ago and asked him to sign my copy of his book. He didn't hesitate, gave me a fist bump and told me he liked my Casablanca Records shirt. RIP Danny."

This latest tragedy for the band comes less than a fortnight after their original guitarist Ace Frehley died after he wasplaced on life support following a brain bleed due to a fall in his studio.

His family announced the news in a hearbreaking statement which read: "We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth.

"We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others.

"The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will continue to live on forever!".