Glen Hansard, the Irish singer-songwriter who won an Academy Award for his work on the film Once, died in a motorcycle crash near Dublin early Wednesday. He was 56.
Key Takeaways
Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard died in a motorcycle crash in Dublin at age 56. He was best known for his Oscar-winning song 'Falling Slowly' from the film Once.
- Irish musician Glen Hansard dies in motorcycle crash near Dublin
- Known for winning an Oscar for 'Once'
- Frontman of The Frames and half of duo The Swell Season with Markéta Irglová
- Lead annual Christmas Eve charity busk outside Gaiety Theatre
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▼Source Claims Check
High ConsensusAll 3 publishers report consistent facts across 4 key claims.
| Claim | Status | Reason | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cause Of Death | Broad Agreement | Motorcycle crash in Lucan, Dublin | |
| Age At Time Of Death | Broad Agreement | 56 years old | |
| Oscar-winning Song | Broad Agreement | 'Falling Slowly' from the film Once | |
| Bands Associated With Glen Hansard | Broad Agreement | The Frames and The Swell Season |
Cause Of Death
Broad AgreementMotorcycle crash in Lucan, Dublin
Age At Time Of Death
Broad Agreement56 years old
Oscar-winning Song
Broad Agreement'Falling Slowly' from the film Once
Bands Associated With Glen Hansard
Broad AgreementThe Frames and The Swell Season
This analysis is AI-generated and may not perfectly represent each source's reporting. Always read the original articles for full context.
The accident occurred in Lucan, on the outskirts of Dublin, before 4:30 a.m., according to Irish police. Hansard was treated at the scene but pronounced dead shortly after as reported by CBS News. His management confirmed his death with a statement expressing their shock and heartbreak.
Hansard began his musical career as a busker in Dublin before gaining fame through his role in the 1991 film The Commitments, where he played Outspan Foster, a member of an Irish soul band. His breakthrough came with the indie musical film Once (2007), which he co-wrote and starred alongside Markéta Irglová.
The pair won the 2008 Oscar for best original song for their duet 'Falling Slowly.' The film's success led to a Broadway adaptation that ran from 2012 to 2015, winning eight Tony Awards. Hansard and Irglová also formed the rock duo The Swell Season, releasing albums together and continuing to collaborate over the years.
Hansard was also known for his work with the Irish band The Frames and released several solo albums, including 'Didn't He Ramble,' which was nominated for a Grammy in 2016. He frequently appeared on CBS's Saturday Sessions segment, showcasing songs from various projects.
Hansard is survived by his wife, Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son. Tributes poured in from fellow musicians and public figures following the news of his death. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin expressed his sadness on social media, highlighting Hansard's significant contribution to Ireland's cultural landscape.
Hansard was also known for leading an annual Christmas Eve charity busk outside Dublin's Gaiety Theatre, supporting the Dublin Simon Community, which works against homelessness in the city. The organization expressed its devastation at his passing, noting his generosity and advocacy for their cause.
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