Irish musician and actor Glen Hansard, known for his Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly,” has died in a motorcycle accident near Dublin. He was 56.

Authorities in Ireland reported that a man in his fifties was involved in a single-vehicle motorcycle collision in the early hours of Wednesday morning in the west of Dublin. Emergency services were called shortly before 4:30 a.m., and the individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward to assist with their investigation.

Hansard rose to prominence from Dublin’s busking scene before founding the band The Frames. His international recognition expanded significantly after starring in the 2007 independent musical drama film *Once*. Hansard co-wrote and performed “Falling Slowly” for the film alongside his co-star and former partner Markéta Irglová. The song earned them the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008.

In *Once*, Hansard portrayed a struggling musician who develops a romantic connection with a young woman through their shared love of music. The film’s director and screenwriter, John Carney, initially intended for actor Cillian Murphy to star opposite Irglová, but after Murphy withdrew, Hansard—who had already composed the songs—was cast in the lead role.

Hansard’s management company released a statement acknowledging his death and requested privacy for his family, colleagues, and friends during the difficult time. Born in Dublin in 1970, Hansard left school at age 13 to focus on his music career.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Hansard had some acting experience, including a role in the 1991 Bafta-winning film *The Commitments*. Reflecting on his Oscar win, Hansard once revealed that despite the accolade, he struggled personally, citing a period marked by increased alcohol consumption. His friend and collaborator Bruce Springsteen helped him navigate that transition, encouraging him to embrace his evolving life and career.

Springsteen paid tribute to Hansard on social media, describing him as a talented musician and generous friend. “Here on E Street, we are heartbroken over the death of Glen Hansard. We met in Ireland many years ago and he was always nothing but a great musician, a good friend and a generous and gracious man. Always positive, smiling and ready to sing. God bless him and his loved ones,” Springsteen wrote.

The circumstances of the motorcycle crash remain under investigation, with local police continuing to seek information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident.