Glen Hansard Dies in Motorcycle Crash in Dublin
DUBLIN – Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter Glen Hansard died in a motorcycle crash in Lucan early Wednesday, according to Irish police. He was 56.
Authorities reported the single-vehicle accident occurred before 4:30 a.m. Hansard was treated at the scene but pronounced dead shortly after.
A spokesperson for ATC Management expressed the family’s “deep shock and heartbreak” over his death. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin also shared his condolences, highlighting Hansard’s significant contributions to Ireland’s cultural landscape.
Hansard gained fame for his role in the 1991 film The Commitments and won an Academy Award in 2008 for the song “Falling Slowly” from the film Once, where he starred alongside Marketa Irglova. He was also the longtime frontman of the band The Frames and performed regularly as part of The Swell Season duo with Irglova.
He had upcoming solo tour dates scheduled across Europe following recent performances, including a solo acoustic set in Toronto in April.
In response to his passing, notable musicians, including Bruce Springsteen and Bob Geldof, paid tribute, emphasizing Hansard’s musical talent and kindness. Hansard is survived by his wife, Maire Saaritsa, and their three-year-old son, Christy.
Authorities are investigating the crash, and further details will be released as they become available.