Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, known for winning an Academy Award for the 2007 film “Once,” has died in a motorcycle accident near Dublin. He was 56 years old, as confirmed by his management.
ATC Management informed broadcaster RTE that Hansard’s family is “deeply shocked and heartbroken.” Tributes from fellow musicians poured in, including from Bruce Springsteen, who wrote on Instagram about the loss of “a great musician, a good friend, and a generous and gracious man.”
According to Irish police, a man in his 50s died in a single-vehicle crash in Lucan, west of Dublin, earlier Wednesday morning. Although they did not name him, it was confirmed he was treated at the scene but later pronounced dead.
Hansard had a dual career in acting and music. He acted in the 1991 movie “The Commitments” and won an Oscar in 2008 for the song “Falling Slowly,” co-written with Markéta Irglová for the indie musical “Once.” The film was later adapted into a successful Broadway show winning eight Tony Awards in 2012, including Best Musical.
He led the rock band The Frames, formed half of The Swell Season duo with Irglová, and released solo albums. His album “Didn’t He Ramble” was nominated for a Grammy for Best Folk Album in 2016.
Ireland’s President Catherine Connolly called him one of Ireland’s great singer-songwriters, adding, “Glen was a vital influence in the Irish music scene, promoting live music and community.” Actor-comedian Chris O’Dowd praised his “energizing melodies and soulful voice.”
Hansard started as a street performer in Dublin and was well-known for leading Christmas Eve performances outside Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre for a homelessness charity.
Former Irish president Michael D. Higgins praised him as a “wonderful musician” who emphasized addressing societal issues. At The Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan’s funeral in 2023, Hansard’s performance of “Fairytale Of New York” was one of the memorable highlights.
He leaves behind his wife, Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son, Christy.