Netflix’s House of Guinness chronicles the ambitious rise of the Guinness family, tracing how they turned their Irish-born brewery into the powerhouse it is today. The eight-part first season follows siblings Arthur (Anthony Boyle), Edward (Louis Partridge), Anne (Emily Fairn) and Benjamin (Fionn O’Shea) as they navigate the aftermath of their father Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness’ death. Each must confront ambition, rivalry and the consequences of their choices as they carve out their place in society.
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Arthur steps into politics, taking up the vacant parliamentary seat for Dublin left by his father, while Edward assumes leadership of the brewery. Anne and Benjamin are left to find their own paths and secure a portion of the family’s fortune. Arthur emerges as the most complex character, harbouring secrets that shape both his personal and professional life, with the series concluding on a dramatic note for him.
The show also explores Sir Arthur Guinness’ sexuality. According to creator Steven Knight, Arthur was gay in real life, and the series depicts a “lavender marriage” with Lady Olivia Hedges (Danielle Galligan), who was aware of his sexuality. Knight explains that the marriage, though initially one of convenience, developed into mutual respect and affection. This portrayal reflects historical reality, highlighting how Arthur navigated the social constraints of his time.
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While the series hints at an assassination attempt on Arthur, history tells a different story. In reality, he successfully won re-election to parliament in 1874, after his first election had been voided due to vote tampering. Beyond politics, Arthur was a businessman, philanthropist, and 1st Baron Ardilaun until his death in 1915 at the age of 75. If a second season is commissioned, viewers may see how Arthur’s life continues to unfold after the dramatic events of the first.
