In brief
Oscar‑winning Irish singer‑songwriter Glen Hansard was killed early Wednesday morning in a motorbike crash on Lower Road, Lucan, west of Dublin. Police are urging witnesses to come forward, while the music community and Irish leaders express profound grief. Hansard’s legacy spans the award‑winning film "Once", the hit song "Falling Slowly", roles in "The Commitments" and charitable work with the Dublin Simon Community.
The Oscar‑winning Irish singer Glen Hansard was killed on a single‑vehicle motorbike crash on Lower Road, Lucan, just west of Dublin, early Wednesday morning.
Police are asking anyone who may have seen the crash to come forward as the incident may have involved a single motorbike.
Hansard, 56, was best known as frontman of The Frames and his award‑winning song “Falling Slowly” from the film Once.
He also starred in the 1991 film The Commitments and co‑created the folk duo The Swell Season.
He also was a generous charity advocate, running the annual Christmas Eve busk for the Dublin Simon Community.
His family said they were “deeply shocked” and asked for privacy, while his manager ATC Management issued a statement expressing sadness and gratitude to emergency services.
Fans and fellow musicians cried in the wake of the news: Andrew Strong posted, “I’m devastated… Rest in peace, brother.”
Chris O’Dowd added: “He gave music to people. Thanks Glen. Huge love to Maire and little Christy.”
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin tweeted, “Deeply saddened… Thank you Glen for your contribution to Ireland’s culture.”
Hundreds of people have joined the online collective mourning, sharing clips of his music and live performances.
Police urge people walking near Lower Road to check whether they saw a motorcycle crashed into a curb, or anyone else upset by the tragic loss.
