Glen Hansard, the Irish singer-songwriter who won an Academy Award for the song “Falling Slowly” from the 2007 film “Once,” died Wednesday in a motorcycle crash in Dublin. He was 56.
According to reports, Hansard was involved in a single-vehicle accident in his home city. Emergency services responded, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash is under investigation.
Hansard rose to international fame after co-writing and starring in the low-budget musical “Once,” which won the Oscar for Best Original Song. The film, shot for about $150,000, became a critical and commercial success, earning Hansard and co-writer Markéta Irglová the Academy Award in 2008.
Before “Once,” Hansard was the frontman of the Irish rock band The Frames, which he formed in 1990. He also acted in the 1991 film “The Commitments” and released several solo albums. His music blended folk, rock, and traditional Irish influences.
News of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans. Irish President Michael D. Higgins called him “a gifted musician and a generous soul.” Hansard is survived by his family.
His death marks the loss of one of Ireland’s most beloved musical figures, known for his passionate performances and songwriting that touched audiences worldwide.