Oscar-winning Irish singer-songwriter and actor Glen Hansard has died in a motorcycle crash in Dublin. He was 56.
Hansard’s management confirmed his death on Wednesday, saying his family, friends and colleagues were still struggling to come to terms with the news and asking that their privacy be respected.
Irish police said a motorcyclist in his 50s died following a single-vehicle crash near Lucan, on the outskirts of Dublin, at about 4.30 a.m. Emergency personnel treated him at the scene, but he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
The Gardaí had not publicly named Hansard as the victim at the time of their initial statement. Officers appealed to witnesses and anyone with relevant camera footage to assist the investigation.
Hansard gained international recognition through the 2007 independent musical film *Once*, in which he starred alongside Czech musician Markéta Irglová.
The pair wrote and performed “Falling Slowly,” which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008.
Hansard used his acceptance speech to encourage aspiring artists, telling them to continue making art regardless of their circumstances.
Born in Dublin, Hansard began performing as a street musician before becoming the lead singer of Irish rock band The Frames. He later performed with Irglová as part of the folk duo The Swell Season and released several solo albums.
He also appeared in Alan Parker’s 1991 film *The Commitments* and received a Grammy nomination for his 2015 solo album *Didn’t He Ramble*.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin paid tribute to Hansard, describing him as a talented musician and actor who made a significant contribution to Ireland’s cultural life.
Hansard was also known for his charitable work, including annual Christmas Eve street performances in Dublin to raise support for homeless people.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are continuing.
