Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, who won an Academy Award for his role in the 2007 musical film “Once,” died Wednesday morning, July 29, in a motorcycle crash on the outskirts of Dublin, according to inquirer.net. He was 56 years old.
Tragedy in Dublin: Irish Police Confirm Fatal Crash
According to Irish police statements reported by inquirer.net, a man in his 50s died in a motorcycle collision in Lucan, located on the western outskirts of the Irish capital. The incident occurred just before 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Emergency responders administered aid at the scene, but authorities pronounced the unnamed man dead shortly thereafter.
Did you know? Glen Hansard’s role on the big screen came before his Oscar win, when he played a member of a Dublin soul music group in the 1991 film “The Commitments”.
Global Music Community Pays Tribute to Glen Hansard
News of the artist’s sudden death prompted widespread tributes across the music industry. Bruce Springsteen shared a statement on Instagram, writing that he felt completely heartbroken over the loss of a “great musician, good friend and a generous and kind person.” Meanwhile, Irish President Catherine Connolly issued a statement naming Hansard one of Ireland’s most exceptional singer-songwriters.
An Acclaimed Career in Music and Film
Hansard built a dual career bridging acting and music. He achieved international prominence as the longtime frontman of the rock band The Frames and starred in the indie film “Once” alongside Marketa Irglova. The pair took home the 2008 Academy Award for “Falling Slowly.” Beyond his film work, Hansard maintained a solo career, earning a 2016 Grammy Award nomination for Best Folk Album for his release “Didn’t He Ramble.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards did Glen Hansard win?
Hansard won an Academy Award in 2008 for “Falling Slowly” from the film “Once.” He also received a Grammy nomination in 2016 for his solo folk album “Didn’t He Ramble.”
What bands was Glen Hansard known for?
He was widely known as the longtime lead singer of the rock band The Frames and for his musical collaborations with Marketa Irglova.
Pro tip: Explore our music history archives for more retrospectives on influential artists and historic Irish musicians.
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