Oscar-winning Irish musician Glen Hansard dies at 56 in motorcycle crash near Dublin
Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, the Oscar-winning musician known for his work in the film “Once,” has died at age 56 following a motorcycle crash near Dublin.
Hansard’s management confirmed his death, saying his family was devastated by the loss. Irish authorities said a man in his 50s died after a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan, a suburb west of Dublin, early Wednesday morning. The rider was treated at the scene but later pronounced dead.
Tributes quickly poured in from fellow musicians and public figures. Bruce Springsteen described Hansard as a great musician, close friend and generous person, saying he was heartbroken by his death.
Hansard built a career that blended acting and music. He first gained attention as a member of the Dublin band in the 1991 film “The Commitments” before becoming internationally recognized for his role in the 2007 independent film “Once.”
The movie, which followed two struggling musicians who form a creative partnership, featured Hansard and Markéta Irglová’s song “Falling Slowly.” The track won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008. The film was later adapted into a Broadway musical that won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in 2012.
Beyond his film success, Hansard was the longtime frontman of Irish rock band The Frames and formed the duo The Swell Season with Irglová. He also released several solo albums, including “Didn’t He Ramble,” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album in 2016.
Irish leaders praised Hansard’s impact on music and his commitment to bringing people together through live performances. President Catherine Connolly called him one of Ireland’s greatest singer-songwriters and said his influence would be deeply missed.
Actor and comedian Chris O’Dowd remembered Hansard’s music as a source of comfort and inspiration, saying his powerful voice and emotional performances made difficult times easier and joyful moments more memorable.
Hansard began his career performing as a street musician in Dublin before becoming a major figure in Ireland’s music scene. He later became known for leading an annual Christmas Eve busking event outside Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre, where musicians performed to raise money for homelessness charities.
Former Irish President Michael D. Higgins also honored Hansard, describing him as a talented performer who dedicated much of his life to addressing social issues.
In 2023, Hansard performed a memorable rendition of The Pogues’ “Fairytale of New York” alongside Irish singer Lisa O’Neill at the funeral of Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan, with mourners joining in during the emotional performance.
Hansard is survived by his wife, Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son, Christy.
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