Glen Hansard, the Irish singer and songwriter famous for his role in the 2007 film “Once” and the Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly” (which he co-wrote with Markéta Irglová), has passed away at the age of 56.
According to the Associated Press, Hansard passed away Wednesday morning after being involved in a motorcycle accident in Dublin.
ATC Management announced with deep sadness that Glen Hansard passed away early this morning. They are still shocked by the news and have asked for privacy for Glen’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time, according to a statement to The Times on Wednesday.
The management company stated that the police are still investigating the situation, according to the Irish Times.
Glen Hansard first gained recognition in Ireland as the frontman of his band, The Frames. He also appeared as an actor in the 1991 film “The Commitments.” Though The Frames never broke up completely, Hansard went on to release music with Markéta Irglová as Swell Season and also pursued a solo career.
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Hansard received a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album in 2026. He also just released a new album called “Don’t Settle – Transmissions East & West,” which looks back at his entire career with live recordings.
He is survived by his wife, poet Maire Saaritsa and a 4-year-old son, Christy.
He told The Times in 2025 that having a son completely changed how he saw life. “It really made me prioritize my health and wanting to live,” he explained.
This is a developing story that will be updated.
2026-07-29 15:31