Netflix’s latest eight-part drama, House of Guinnes, hit the OTT platform on September 25, 2025. The show, inspired by the real-life story of Ireland’s Guinness dynasty, explores the tale of four privileged heirs navigating a web of politics, betrayal, and power struggles in 19th-century Ireland. Created by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, the series is already being hailed as the perfect blend of Downton Abbey and Succession.

But did you know, much of the scandal featured in the series isn’t just fiction but inspired by real-life events? Yes, the characters in House of Guinness were actually inspired by the real Guinness siblings, children of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, once considered the wealthiest man in Ireland. But the family’s history is marred by years of rivalry, feud rumours, and scandals that are far more intriguing than fictional stories.

So, who were these scandalous siblings whose privilege, ambition, and secrets brewed into one of Ireland’s juiciest family dramas?

Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness

The pilot of House of Guinness opens on May 27, 1868, the day of the funeral of ‘Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness’ (played by John Burke). IIn real life, he was the grandson of Arthur Guinness, the founder of Ireland’s iconic beer company, Guinness. Under his leadership, Guinness expanded into a global brand. Over the years, he grew to be the richest man in Ireland with his business and philanthropic ventures. In 1865, he became the first Guinness elected to Parliament, representing Dublin City. 

Arthur Guinness Jr. (played by Anthony Boyle)

As the eldest of the Guinness siblings, Arthur Guinness inherited both wealth and responsibility from his father, Sir Benjamin. In the Netflix series, his character has been fictionalised to lean towards ruthless power plays, but the real Arthur was more restrained and was known to value tradition.

Yet, being the oldest heir came with its own burdens. Being the leading face of the family business and estate, he was under constant scrutiny. His siblings, all ambitious and restless, often chafed under Arthur’s authority. Though he was a steady and reliable presence, his charismatic brothers often overshadowed him.

Benjamin Guinness (played by Fionn O’Shea)

Benjamin was the second son who had ambition coursing through his veins. Unlike his brother Arthur Jr, he thrived in politics and influence. Benjamin eventually followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a parliamentary career.

Netflix’s portrayal of Sir Benjamin’s scheming middle children owes much to Benjamin’s real-life hunger for power. His clashes with the rest of the Guinness siblings eventually became a family legend. He wanted to win it all, and often fought for his position in business and politics alike, making him a true player in Dublin’s elite circles.

Edward Guinness, Earl of Iveagh (played by Louis Partridge)

Every dynasty has its black sheep, and for the Guinness family, it was the third child and the youngest son, Edward Guinness. He firmly resisted the stiff expectations that came with inheriting a privileged life. While Arthur upheld tradition and Benjamin embraced politics, Edward often turned heads for all the wrong reasons.

There were swirling rumours about his lifestyle choices and affairs. Although a magnetic presence, his recklessness earned him both admiration and scandal in the elite circles. There were whispers about his escapades, and while there may be debates about the historic details, there’s no doubt that he added an element of unpredictability to the Guinness name.

Anne Plunket Guinness (played by Emily Fairn)

Anne, the only daughter of Sir Benjamin, was an enigma, not only for the family, but also as a woman in the 19th-century society. In an era where women were often sidelined, Anne wielded her influence by using marriages and alliances as her power moves. She navigated high society with elegance and poise, securing connections that further strengthened the Guinness family’s networks.

The Guinness siblings were children of immense privilege, but their lives were anything but simple. Every move they made, they had to face heavy expectations, politics, and whispers of scandal. Yet, they succeeded in creating a legacy together that was as intriguing as it was stout.

Netflix’s House of Guinness may have dramatised the events for the extra kick of entertainment, but the core themes like sibling rivalry, family duty, political ambition, and whispered betrayals are indeed firmly rooted in reality.

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