Glen Hansard, the renowned Irish singer-songwriter and musician, tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Dublin on Wednesday, July 29, at the age of 56. His passing has cast a shadow over the music and theatre communities, with many expressing their heartfelt tributes to a man who inspired countless artists and audiences alike.
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Following the news of Hansard’s death, actor Steve Kazee, who gained acclaim for his performance in the Broadway adaptation of Hansard’s film *Once*, shared an emotional tribute with PEOPLE. Kazee described Hansard as “my hero, my mentor, and my friend,” emphasising the profound impact he had on his career and personal journey. The actor, who won a Tony Award for his portrayal of ‘Guy’ in the musical, reflected on how the experience of first hearing *Once* in a small cinema set the course for his remarkable career in theatre.
Kazee recalled, “I am devastated by the loss of Glen Hansard,” highlighting the musician’s extraordinary artistry and generosity. He remembered the warmth and kindness Hansard extended to those around him, often fostering connections through the medium of music. Kazee concluded his tribute, stating, “I will carry his spirit with me always.”
According to reports from Ireland’s national police service, An Garda Síochána, Hansard was involved in a single-vehicle motorcycle accident on Lower Road in Lucan, a suburb of Dublin. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after 4:30 a.m. to provide aid, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The musician’s representatives later confirmed the sad news, inviting privacy for Hansard’s family during this difficult time.
Hansard’s legacy is deeply tied to *Once*, both as an acclaimed film and a celebrated stage musical. The original movie, released in 2007, featured Hansard alongside Czech actress Markéta Irglová. Their powerful performances and heartfelt songwriting, particularly the Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly,” captivated audiences and established Hansard as a prominent figure in the creative arts.
Following the film’s success, *Once* transitioned to the stage, first appearing in workshops in 2011 before debuting on Broadway in 2012. The musical won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and enjoyed a successful run until January 2015. Kazee’s portrayal of ‘Guy’ contributed significantly to the production’s success, which brought Hansard’s music to a new generation of theatre-goers.
In the wake of Hansard’s death, actress Cristin Milioti, who played opposite Kazee in the Broadway production, expressed her sorrow with a poignant message on Instagram, stating, “there are no words.” This sentiment resonated with many who admired Hansard not only for his musical talent but also for the personal connections he forged with others.
Kazee vividly remembered his first encounter with Hansard’s music, noting how it captivated him when he first watched *Once*. He recounted an anecdote from the production’s early days, where Hansard supported the workshop’s cast, marking the beginning of a valuable relationship. The actor shared his experience of playing music with Hansard during rehearsals, where they discussed the deeper meanings and emotional layers of the songs.
The final meeting between Kazee and Hansard steered away from music, focusing instead on their roles as fathers. Kazee reflected on the profound joy and pride Hansard expressed when talking about his young son, suggesting that the musician’s greatest love and legacy may lie in his family. “That will always be my lasting memory,” Kazee remarked, emphasising the bond they shared as fathers.
Glen Hansard is survived by his partner, poet Maire Saaritsa, and their three-year-old son. In addition, Steve Kazee shares two children with fiancée Jenna Dewan: a six-year-old son, Callum, and a two-year-old daughter, Rhiannon, while also being a stepfather to Dewan’s older daughter, Everly.
As the arts community mourns Hansard’s untimely passing, his influence continues to be felt through the songs he created, the performances he inspired, and the connections he made. In a world where music often brings solace, the legacy of Glen Hansard will undoubtedly carry on, resonating in the hearts of those who loved him and were touched by his art.