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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedJuly 29, 2026United States

Irish Musician and Oscar Winner Glen Hansard Dies at 56

Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, known for his work in the film 'Once' and the band The Frames, has died following a motorcycle accident in Dublin. He was 56 years old and is survived by his wife and son.

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Why It Matters

The death of a prominent cultural figure marks the loss of a significant contributor to the Irish music scene and the Broadway community.

Key Facts

  • Glen Hansard died at age 56 following a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan, Dublin.
  • The accident occurred before 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
  • Hansard won an Academy Award in 2008 for the song 'Falling Slowly' from the film 'Once'.
  • The musical 'Once' won eight Tony Awards in 2012.
  • Hansard was the front man for the rock band The Frames and half of the duo The Swell Season.
  • His solo album 'Didn’t He Ramble' was nominated for a Grammy in 2016.
  • Hansard was known for organizing an annual Christmas Eve busk in Dublin to support homelessness charities.
  • He appeared in the 1991 film 'The Commitments'.

Who's Mentioned

personGlen Hansard“The subject of the article, a deceased Irish singer-songwriter.”personChris O’Dowd“Actor-comedian who provided a tribute.”personCatherine Connolly“President of Ireland who issued a statement.”locationDublin“The location of the accident and the musician's home city.”organizationATC Management“The management firm that confirmed the death.”personMichael D. Higgins“Former Irish president who provided a tribute.”personMaire Saaritsa“Hansard's wife.”personMarkéta Irglová“Collaborator and co-star in 'Once'.”personBruce Springsteen“Musician who provided a public tribute.”personChristy“Hansard's 3-year-old son.”