First 'The Voice' Winner Ben Saunders Dies at 43

Ben Saunders, the inaugural winner of the Dutch version of the reality singing competition "The Voice," has passed away at the age of 43. His body was discovered on Tuesday afternoon in the Rijkerswoerdse Plassen recreational lake near Arnhem, Netherlands, after he had been reported missing. Dutch media reported that police, divers, dogs, and a police helicopter were involved in the search that led to the discovery of Saunders' body.

The police have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, but the cause and circumstances of his death have not been released. Saunders made history in 2010 as the winner of "The Voice of Holland," the original format that later spawned international versions, including in the United States and Israel. His blind audition performance of Kings of Leon's "Use Somebody" propelled him to victory.

His win led to a recording contract and significant success in the Netherlands. His song "Kill For A Broken Heart" topped the Dutch charts, and his debut album, "You Thought You Knew Me By Now," also reached number one. He released a second album, "Heart & Soul," in 2012.

In his later years, Saunders gradually stepped away from the spotlight but continued his music career, participating in the Dutch talent show "Avastars" in 2023. He also worked as a tattoo artist, running a studio in Arnhem with his partner, Juanita, a profession he had pursued for over 25 years.

Following his death, his partner Juanita and their 9-year-old son, Benji, released a statement on social media requesting privacy during their difficult time. His brother, Dean Saunders, also posted a tribute on Instagram expressing his grief over the loss of his younger brother. Despite the public attention surrounding the death of the first "The Voice" champion, Dutch authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of death.