Billionaire heir Hans Rausing has been knighted by King Charles for his service to the arts, marking a significant redemption for a man who previously battled severe drug addiction and faced legal consequences. In July 2012, police discovered the decomposing body of his first wife, Eva, hidden in their London home, where she had been for two months. Rausing, who was under the influence at the time of his arrest, received a suspended sentence for preventing a lawful burial and driving under the influence.
Rausing, heir to the Tetra Pak fortune, has a long history of drug addiction, which began in India in his youth and continued for decades, impacting his marriage to Eva, who also struggled with addiction. Despite their wealth and attempts by family and professionals to intervene, including hiring former SAS soldiers, the couple's addiction persisted. Their four children were placed with Rausing's sister in 2007 due to their parents' struggles. Eva died in 2012, and Rausing admitted to not reporting her death because he couldn't "confront the reality."
Following Eva's death, Rausing spent nearly two years in a psychiatric hospital, where he began his recovery. He later married Julia Delves Broughton, who is credited with helping him find purpose and joy again. Together, they became prominent philanthropists, donating over £500 million to various causes, including the National Gallery, prison charities, and youth charities. Julia passed away in 2024, and Rausing stated that his knighthood is a tribute to her as well.