Glen Hansard Has Died, Aged 56

Glen Hansard, the frontman for legendary rock band The Frames who also played guitarist Outspan Foster in The Commitments, has died aged 56.

Per the BBC, the actor and musician, who won an Oscar for Best Original Song for Falling Slowly in 2008 (which he wrote for the movie Once), died in a motorbike accident.

This happened in Hansard’s home city of Dublin.

Gardaí (Ireland’s police) have appealed for witnesses following the crash, which only involved one vehicle and took place in Lower Road, Lucan. The tragic event was reported to emergency services just before 4:30am.

Hansard’s representatives, ATC management, said in a statement: “With broken hearts we announce the passing of Glen Hansard who passed away, in the early hours of this morning, following a road traffic accident in Dublin.

“Glen’s family is deeply shocked and heartbroken by this tragic loss and respectfully requests privacy at this extremely difficult time. The family is grateful for the support they have received and wishes to thank the emergency services who attended the scene.”

Waterboys singer Mike Scott has posted on X, “Just heard that Glen Hansard has died. Travel on well, Buddy. You made your dreams come true. I’m so sorry that he leaves his wife and 3-year-old child.”

Ireland’s Taoiseach (similar to the UK’s Prime Minister), Micheál Martin, has also expressed his sympathy.

He said, “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Glen Hansard. A talented musician and actor who made a significant contribution to Ireland’s cultural landscape over many years. My sincere sympathies to his family, friends, and fans. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam [God rest his soul].”

Born in Dublin in 1970, Hansard busked on the city’s streets before forming The Frames in 1990 and landing a role in 1991’s The Commitments.

He also became part of duo The Swell Season and released Grammy-award-winning solo music, like folk album Didn’t He Ramble.

Hansard is survived by his wife, poet Maire Saaritsa, and their three-year-old child.