Irish singer-songwriter and actor Glen Hansard, best known for the film 'Once', passed away in a motorcycle accident today local time.

According to the BBC, his music management company, ATC Management, stated, "It is with great sadness that we announce Glen Hansard passed away following a traffic accident in Dublin early this morning."

ATC Management added, "His family is in deep shock and grief, and we ask that their privacy be respected during this very difficult time."

According to Irish and British media, Dublin police are appealing for witnesses to a single-vehicle motorcycle crash that occurred early this morning on the Lucan road in western Dublin.

Born in Dublin in April 1970, Hansard started as a busker, formed and fronted the rock band The Frames, and appeared in the 1991 musical film 'The Commitments'.

He gained worldwide recognition after starring alongside Czech singer Markéta Irglová in the hit 2007 musical film 'Once'.

Focusing primarily on his solo career from the 2010s onward, he received a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album in 2015 for his record 'Didn't He Ramble'.

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin paid tribute on X, formerly Twitter, writing, "He was a talented musician and actor who made a profound contribution to Irish culture over many years."

He is survived by his wife, poet Mairéad Saricza, and their 3-year-old son.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)