The acoustic guitar played by Glen Hansard, a battered Takamine NP15 he named The Horse, became as recognizable as his voice during his decades of performance. An Irish singer-songwriter and actor, Hansard emerged from the streets of Dublin to capture international attention through both his intense live shows and his contributions to cinematic scores.
Early Development and The Frames
Born in Ballymun, Dublin, in 1970, Hansard began busking in his early teens after leaving school. In 1990, he established the rock band The Frames, which served as his primary musical outlet for many years. The group gained consistent traction in Ireland, eventually releasing six studio albums. During this era, he also began an acting career, notably appearing as Outspan Foster in the 1991 film The Commitments.
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In 2005, Hansard formed the folk rock duo The Swell Season with Czech musician Markéta Irglová. Their collaboration reached a peak with the 2007 musical drama Once, in which both starred. The duo wrote the film's original music, and their song Falling Slowly received the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2008. The film was later adapted into a successful stage musical.
Solo Projects and Later Career
Hansard expanded into solo work with the 2012 release of his debut album, Rhythm and Repose, followed by the Grammy-nominated 2015 record Didn't He Ramble. His career included extensive touring alongside artists such as Eddie Vedder and Bruce Springsteen. He remained active in film and television, contributing songs to soundtracks including The Hunger Games and appearing in series such as Parenthood.
Final Years
In 2022, Hansard married Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, with whom he had a son that same year; the family resided in both Helsinki and Celbridge, Ireland. He continued to produce music, including a 2022 recording featuring Ukrainian refugees. Hansard died in July 2026 following a motorcycle accident at the Strawberry Beds near Dublin. He was 56 at the time of his death.
Fast facts
- Born: 1970, Dublin, Ireland
- Died: 2026, Dublin, Ireland
- Primary Occupations: Singer-songwriter, guitarist, actor
- Major Band Affiliations: The Frames, The Swell Season
- Notable Award: Academy Award for Best Original Song (2008)
- Instrument: Takamine NP15 (The Horse)
- Languages Spoken: English, Dutch
- Education: New York Film Academy
Questions readers ask
What was Glen Hansard's most famous song?
He is widely recognized for Falling Slowly, which he co-wrote with Markéta Irglová for the film Once.
How did Glen Hansard die?
He died in July 2026 at age 56 following a motorcycle accident at the Strawberry Beds in Dublin.
Achievements
- Academy Award for Best Original Song
- Instruments: ukulele, voice and guitar
- Genres: traditional folk music, indie pop and contemporary folk music
