The Voice's first winner found dead

Ben Saunders, who won the inaugural season of The Voice of Holland in 2011, was found dead on Tuesday at a recreational lake in Elst, Netherlands. He was 43.

“Ben Saunders, the singer who made history as the first winner of The Voice of Holland, has died.”

Body recovered from lake

Police recovered a body from Rijkerswoerdse Plassen lake at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Foul play has been ruled out.

Historic win launched global franchise

Saunders won The Voice of Holland's first season in 2011, just one year after the show premiered. The Dutch series became the template for over 150 adaptations worldwide.

Brother won competition one day later

Ben's brother Dean won the Dutch version of Popstars just one day after Ben's Voice of Holland victory, creating a remarkable moment in television history for the Saunders family.

Coach Marco Borsato pays tribute

Former Voice of Holland coach Marco Borsato shared a clip of Saunders performing his song 'Dochters' and wrote that his heart was weeping over the loss.

“I cannot find words for the void you leave behind.”

Brother shares emotional tribute

Dean Saunders announced his brother's death on Instagram, writing that he had never felt pain like this before and that Ben would stay in his heart forever.

“My dear little brother passed away today…I have never felt pain like this before…”