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Irish singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor known for raw vocals and emotionally charged folk-rock compositions.Born in Dublin, Hansard began busking at age 13. Co-founded band The Frames (1990), achieved global fame starring in the film Once (2007), winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Pursues solo career and collaborates with Markéta Irglová as The Swell Season.

• Dropped out of school at 13 to pursue busking full-time, later describing it as his 'true education'.
• The Frames faced near-breakup after their debut album underperformed, but rebuilt their audience through intense live performances in Ireland.
• His romantic relationship with Markéta Irglová (his Once co-star and musical partner) ended in 2009, though they continued professional collaboration.
• Refused to trademark the phrase 'Once' after the film's success, allowing other artists to freely use it.
• His Oscar statuette was stolen during a 2015 burglary but later recovered in a dumpster.