Irish musician Glen Hansard has died following a motorcycle crash in Dublin in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
The acclaimed singer-songwriter, aged 56, was killed in a single-vehicle collision on the R109 near Rugged Lane, close to Strawberry Beds in Lucan.
Glen Hansard. Christian Bernard, Shutterstock
Gardaí and emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 4.30am.
The motorcyclist was treated at the scene but was pronounced dead a short time later.
The road remains closed between the R121 (Tinkers Hill) and Rugged Lane as Garda Forensic Collision Investigators carry out an examination of the scene. Local traffic diversions remain in place.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward, including anyone who was travelling in the area at the time and may have camera footage, including dash-cam recordings.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lucan Garda Station on (01) 666 7300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
Glen Hansard. Rene Oonk, Shutterstock
Born in Dublin in 1970, Glen Hansard became one of Ireland’s most respected musicians, building a career that spanned more than three decades.
He first found fame as the frontman of The Frames, the Dublin rock band he formed in the early 1990s.
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Glen Hansard. Christian Bertrand Shutterstock
The Frames developed a loyal following in Ireland and internationally, becoming known for their emotional songwriting, powerful live performances and songs including Revelate, Fitzcarraldo and Fake.
Hansard also gained worldwide recognition for his role in the 2007 Irish musical film Once, where he starred alongside Czech musician Markéta Irglová.
The film, which was set and filmed in Dublin, followed two musicians who form a connection through their shared love of music. Its soundtrack became a global success, with the song Falling Slowly winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008.
Following the success of Once, Hansard and Irglová continued making music together as The Swell Season, releasing albums and performing around the world.
Glen Hansard. Ben Houdijk, Shutterstock.
Throughout his career, Hansard remained deeply connected to Ireland’s music scene and was widely praised for his songwriting, live performances and collaborations with other artists.
He released several solo albums, including Rhythm and Repose, Didn't He Ramble and This Wild Willing, while continuing to perform with The Frames.
Hansard was also known for supporting emerging musicians and regularly took part in intimate performances and charity events.
Just this past week, he had released the second volume of his "Don't Settle" solo project which he was planning to tour in Ireland and Europe in the next few months.
He is survived by partner Maire and his son Christy who was born in October 2022.
