Oscar‑winning Irish singer Glen Hansard dies in motorbike crash
The 56‑year‑old frontman of rock group The Frames and Academy‑Award winning songwriter was killed in a single‑vehicle motorcycle crash early on Wednesday in Dublin.
The incident happened on Lower Road in Lucan, west of Dublin, and police have asked anyone who saw the crash to come forward. Emergency services were called at around 04:30 local time.
Hansard’s career began with The Frames in 1991 followed by a breakthrough role as Outspan Foster in the 1991 film "The Commitments". He later co‑created The Swell Season with Czech singer‑songwriter Markéta Irglová, delivering hit songs like "Falling Slowly" which earned him an Oscar in 2008 for Best Original Song.
Hansard, who was a father to a three‑year‑old son, was also known for his charity work. He founded the annual Christmas Eve charity busk in Dublin, which drew notable musicians such as Bono, Sinéad O’Connor, Imelda May and Shane MacGowan to support homelessness initiatives.
In a statement from his management, ATC, the family expressed that they were "deeply shocked" by the tragedy.
Co‑stars have paid tribute: writer‑director Andrew Strong sent a Facebook message expressing his devastation; actor Chris O’Dowd posted on Instagram, celebrating Hansard’s legacy; and Waterboys singer Mike Scott tweeted his sorrow.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called the loss "deeply saddened" and praised Hansard for his huge cultural contributions to Ireland. The Irish public mourns a beloved songwriter whose music crossed borders and generations.
For more updates on the accident, keep an eye on the local police briefings and official statements.
