House of Guinness: An Epic Tale of Ambition, Dynasty, and Beer Legacy
Netflix is set to debut a new historical drama masterpiece with House of Guinness, an eight-part series created by Steven Knight, the genius behind Peaky Blinders. Set in 19th-century Dublin, Ireland, and New York, USA, the series tells the dramatic story of the Guinness family—the dynasty behind the world-famous beer empire. Featuring a star-studded cast including Anthony Boyle, James Norton, and Jack Gleeson, and backed by a top-tier production team, House of Guinness promises an epic tale of power, betrayal, and legacy, slated for release at the end of 2025. The series is not only a historical journey but also a vivid portrait of loyalty tested and secrets that could shake a family to its core.
The Fateful Will: The Spark of Epic Drama
The story of House of Guinness begins in 1868, when Sir Benjamin Guinness, the man who elevated the Guinness brand to new heights, passes away and leaves behind a highly controversial will. This document not only divides the family fortune but ignites a fierce power struggle among his four children: Arthur (Anthony Boyle), Edward (Louis Partridge), Anne (Emily Fairn), and Benjamin Jr. (Fionn O’Shea). Each sibling represents a different facet of ambition and loyalty, turning the Guinness family into a tense battleground.
The 19th-century Dublin setting is brought to life with vivid realism—from bustling streets to society’s hidden corners—where supporting characters like Sean Rafferty (James Norton) and Byron Hedges (Jack Gleeson) weave into the story, adding layers of intrigue and complex relationships. The series expands beyond Ireland to New York, where the Guinness family faces new challenges in a rapidly changing world. Steven Knight skillfully constructs a narrative that is both historically grounded and rich in modern drama, ensuring audiences stay captivated.
The Guinness Dynasty: Family Bonds on the Edge of Betrayal
At the heart of House of Guinness lies the conflicted relationships among Sir Benjamin’s four children, each with their own personality and goals. Arthur, the ambitious eldest son, is determined to protect the family legacy at all costs, but his rigidity pits him against Edward, the passionate younger brother who boldly challenges authority. Anne, an intelligent and resilient woman, fights to assert her place in a male-dominated society where her voice is often dismissed. Benjamin Jr., the mysterious youngest son, holds secrets that could shift the entire family dynamic.
The young, talented cast—from Anthony Boyle to Louis Partridge—is expected to deliver emotionally charged performances, vividly portraying the fractures in familial bonds. Supporting characters like Lady Olivia Hedges (Danielle Galligan) and Bonnie Champion (David Wilmot) add layers of drama, from turbulent romances to corporate and political intrigue. House of Guinness isn’t just about beer production—it’s a story about people, the cracks within a family, and how they shape a legacy that transcends time.
History and Fiction: A Vivid 19th-Century Canvas
Inspired by the real-life Guinness family, House of Guinness skillfully blends historical events with fictional elements to craft a story that is both authentic and compelling. The St. James’s Gate brewery, founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759 with a 9,000-year lease, stands as a symbol of resilience and foresight. Sir Benjamin Guinness, Arthur’s grandson, transformed the brand into an empire and contributed to the restoration of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
The series captures the posthumous era of Sir Benjamin’s life, when the family faces major economic, social, and political upheaval. From the smoke-filled streets of Dublin to the bustling energy of 19th-century New York, House of Guinness delivers a rich historical tapestry enhanced by Steven Knight’s creative fictional flourishes. Though not entirely faithful to historical fact, the series maintains the spirit of the era, highlighting class conflicts, the growth of commerce, and social transformations that helped shape the modern world.
Top-Tier Production: Why You Can’t Miss It
House of Guinness is helmed by a world-class production team, with Steven Knight as writer and executive producer. Directors Tom Shankland (House of Cards) and Mounia Akl (Boiling Point) bring a visually stunning style that combines historical authenticity with the intensity of modern drama.
The cast—from James Norton with his challenging Dublin accent to Jack Gleeson’s impressive return after Game of Thrones—promises unforgettable moments. Anne Mensah, VP of Netflix UK, praised Knight’s script as “pages torn from a classic novel,” underscoring the series’ exceptional storytelling quality. With the creative minds behind Peaky Blinders and The Serpent onboard, House of Guinness is more than a family saga—it’s an epic tale of power and legacy that’s poised to captivate global audiences.
Conclusion: A Pint, A Story
House of Guinness is more than a tale of a family that shaped the beer industry—it’s an emotional journey of loyalty, betrayal, and the drive to transcend. Every pint of Guinness tells a story, and every family secret is a new, dramatic chapter. With its masterful blend of history, drama, and powerful performances, the series is set to be a Netflix highlight at the end of 2025. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of House of Guinness—where power is measured by ambition, and legacy is written in blood and sweat.
