British high society figure Tarik Wildman, a vibrant 65-year-old vintage car enthusiast, was found dead at his luxury villa in Marbella just hours after returning from an Italian rally. The respected businessman, described by friends as a “force of nature” with connections spanning British, American, and Irish social circles, is believed to have died from natural causes while an autopsy is pending to confirm the exact cause of his passing.
A Life of Privilege and Passion
Born into a prestigious family, Tarik Wildman carried an impressive heritage as the son of Frederick Wildman Jnr., who hailed from a prominent wine exporting family. His mother, the Honorable Corinna Cunliffe, was a well-known fashion magazine editor, setting the stage for Tarik’s later position in high society circles across multiple countries.
Wildman held citizenship in three countries – Britain, America, and Ireland – reflecting his international connections and heritage. He was married to Susan O’Reilly, daughter of Sir Anthony O’Reilly, further cementing his status among the elite of multiple nations while building a reputation as someone who embraced life with uncommon enthusiasm.
🚨 Discovery details
• Tarik Wildman, 65, found dead on June 8, 2025, at his Marbella villa.
• Returned hours earlier from organizing Team Schh rally in Italy with his Lancia Flamina.
• Died peacefully in sleep, but cause remains unknown pending autopsy.
• Lived in the… pic.twitter.com/nXrD1Kt4Or— Snap Media (@SnapMediaLive) June 11, 2025
The tragic news of Wildman’s passing has sent ripples through European high society, where he was known not just for his family connections but for his genuine passion for vintage automobiles. Friends described him as someone who lived life to its fullest, embodying traditional values of adventure and fellowship that resonated with those fortunate enough to know him.
His unexpected death occurred shortly after returning from what would be his final rally in Italy, a fitting end for a man whose love for classic cars and the thrill of the race defined much of his identity. The Classic and Sports Car Club of Andalucia, where Wildman was a cherished member, has been particularly affected by the loss of one of their most enthusiastic participants.
A Gentleman Racer Remembered
Among the vintage car community, Wildman had earned respect not just for his impressive collection but for his genuine enthusiasm and knowledge of automotive history. His passion for classic automobiles went beyond mere collection – he was an active participant in rallies across Europe, sharing his love for mechanical heritage with fellow enthusiasts.
British Millionaire Tarik Wildman Found Dead at Luxury Marbella Villa in Spain – https://t.co/4nV96xtybs pic.twitter.com/8iCO4MJ9H5
— M10News (@M10News1) June 11, 2025
Those who knew him through the Classic and Sports Car Club of Andalucia remember a man who brought energy and excitement to every event. Wildman’s approach to vintage racing embodied the spirit of gentlemen drivers from earlier eras – competitive yet courteous, and always focused on the camaraderie that makes the classic car community special.
Spanish authorities are currently investigating his death, though initial reports suggest natural causes were to blame. Despite his 65 years, friends note that Wildman maintained an energetic lifestyle that belied his age, making his sudden passing all the more shocking to those who knew his vibrant personality.
The timing of his death – shortly after returning from a rally in Italy – has added a poignant note to the loss for the classic car community. Many have remarked that if Wildman had to leave this world, doing so after engaging in the passion that defined much of his life seems fitting for a man who lived so completely on his own terms.
Legacy of a “Force of Nature”
Beyond his impressive pedigree and car collection, friends consistently describe Wildman as a “force of nature” and a “party animal” who approached life with infectious enthusiasm. His generosity of spirit left an impression on those who knew him, with many recounting stories of his larger-than-life personality and willingness to share his passions with others.
The intersection of privilege and genuine character defined Wildman’s reputation in social circles spanning multiple countries. While born into circumstances that afforded him many opportunities, acquaintances note that he never took these advantages for granted, instead using his position to create memorable experiences and forge meaningful connections.
“He was someone who lived life to its absolute fullest – generous, passionate, and always ready for the next adventure,” one close friend remarked after learning of his passing.
🚨 British Wine Tycoon Tarik Wildman Found Dead in Spanish Villa
Discovered June 8, 2025
📍Marbella, Spain –
• Tycoon, 65, died peacefully in sleep at La Virginia complex post-Italian car rally.
• Known for managing PJ Investments and vintage car passion, including Monte Carlo… pic.twitter.com/Ll9esgk7OF— Snap Media (@SnapMediaLive) June 11, 2025
His family connections – particularly through his American father’s wine business and his British mother’s noble lineage – gave him entrée to exclusive social circles, but it was his personal qualities that made him a welcomed and beloved figure within them. The loss has resonated particularly strongly among the British expatriate community in southern Spain, where Wildman was a familiar and popular presence.
As news of his passing spreads through his extensive network of friends and associates, many have reflected on how Wildman embodied traditional values of living life with purpose and passion. His commitment to preserving automotive heritage through his collection and participation in rallies represented a connection to history and craftsmanship that many conservatives particularly appreciate.
The pending autopsy will provide final confirmation about the cause of death, but those closest to Wildman have focused less on these details and more on celebrating the vibrant life he led. His multicultural background – with meaningful connections to British, American, and Irish heritage – made him a unique figure who moved comfortably through different societies while maintaining a distinctive identity.
As arrangements are made to honor his memory, the vintage car community in particular has begun discussing ways to commemorate a man who contributed so much to their shared passion. Some have suggested memorial drives or dedicated rally events that would capture Wildman’s enthusiasm for both the machines themselves and the fellowship they create among enthusiasts.
For those who appreciate the values of heritage, craftsmanship, and living life with purpose, Wildman’s story offers an inspiring example. His commitment to preserving mechanical history through his collection of vintage automobiles represented a connection to tradition and excellence that resonates with many who cherish similar values.
Though his passing leaves a void in multiple communities – from high society circles to vintage car enthusiasts – friends have emphasized that Wildman would want to be remembered not with somber reflection but with the same joie de vivre that he brought to every aspect of his own life. His legacy will continue through the memories of those who experienced his generosity, enthusiasm, and larger-than-life personality.
Sources:
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/staticjson/static-assets/documents/PwnedPasswordsTop100k.txt