Glen Hansard, a Dublin native who became an internationally recognized musician and actor, died in a motorcycle accident at age 56. He had performed at a traditional music session earlier that day before the single-vehicle crash occurred.
Hansard began his musical career as a busker on Grafton Street in Dublin before forming the band the Frames with fellow street musicians he had befriended. His early career included an acting role in the 1991 film adaptation of Roddy Doyle’s “The Commitments,” where he played guitarist Outspan Foster. Though initially signed to Island Records, the Frames’ debut album underperformed commercially, and the label dropped them. However, the band persisted, building a strong following through regular performances at Dublin venues, and eventually achieved mainstream success in Ireland with albums reaching the top of the charts.
Hansard collaborated with Czech-Icelandic pianist Markéta Irglová in the musical project The Swell Season, which gained widespread recognition following their involvement in director John Carney’s film “Once.” The duo’s song “Falling Slowly” won the Academy Award for best original song in 2008. Hansard and Irglová continued their professional relationship after their romantic partnership ended, releasing additional albums together.
Beyond his work with the Frames and The Swell Season, Hansard pursued a solo career beginning in 2012 with “Rhythm and Repose.” His 2015 solo album “Didn’t He Ramble” received a Grammy nomination for best folk album. He remained active in music through recent years, with his final London performance occurring at the Roundhouse in May during a UK and European tour.
Hansard maintained connections to his roots throughout his career, participating in the Big Busk event held annually on Christmas Eve outside Dublin’s Gaiety theatre, benefiting the Simon Community charity that assists homeless individuals. He was also involved in activist efforts related to homelessness in Dublin. He is survived by his wife, Maire Saaritsa, a Finnish poet whom he married in 2022, their son Christy, and four brothers and a sister.
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