POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedJuly 29, 2026United States

Glen Hansard, Oscar-winning Irish musician, 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.

obituarymusicIrelandtransportation_safety
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main Feed

Why It Matters

The death of a prominent cultural figure marks the loss of a significant contributor to the Irish music industry and a long-time advocate for homelessness charities.

Key Facts

  • Glen Hansard died at age 56 following a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan, Dublin.
  • The crash occurred before 4:30 a.m. on a Wednesday.
  • Hansard won an Academy Award in 2008 for the song 'Falling Slowly' from the film 'Once'.
  • He was the front man for the rock band The Frames and half of the duo The Swell Season.
  • He appeared in the 1991 film 'The Commitments'.
  • The musical adaptation of 'Once' won eight Tony Awards in 2012.
  • Hansard was known for organizing an annual Christmas Eve busk in Dublin to support homelessness charities.
  • He is survived by his wife, Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son, Christy.

Who's Mentioned

locationLucan“Location of the motorcycle crash.”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“City where the crash occurred and where Hansard began his career.”personMichael D. Higgins“Former President of Ireland who provided a tribute.”personMaire Saaritsa“Surviving spouse of Glen Hansard.”personMarkéta Irglová“Co-writer of the Oscar-winning song 'Falling Slowly'.”personBruce Springsteen“Musician who provided a public tribute.”personChristy“Son of Glen Hansard.”