The music world is mourning the loss of Glen Hansard, the acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter, actor and Oscar winner, who has died at the age of 56 following a motorcycle accident near Dublin.
A message from his management team announced the tragic news on his website and socials.
'On behalf of ATC Management, July 29th 2026.
With broken hearts we announce the passing of Glen Hansard in the early hours of this morning.
We are still dealing with the shock of it all, so we kindly ask that the privacy of Glen’s family, colleagues and friends is respected at this difficult time.'
Hansard's career began busking on the streets of Dublin before joining the cast of The Commitments and later becoming the frontman of the much-loved Irish band The Frames.
But it was the 2007 independent film Once that introduced him to the world. Starring alongside Markéta Irglová, the pair co-wrote the haunting ballad Falling Slowly, which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became one of the most memorable movie soundtracks of its generation.
Beyond the awards, Glen was admired for his heartfelt song-writing, his powerful live performances and his generosity, returning each Christmas to the streets of Dublin to busk for homeless charities.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the music world, celebrating not only his remarkable talent, but also his kindness and humility. He was 56
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8mtXwtapX4&list=RDk8mtXwtapX4&start_radio=1
Source: YouTube: Glen Hansard VEVO | Photo Credit: glenhansar.com