Today, September 25, 2025, marks the global streaming debut of “House of Guinness” on Netflix, a brand-new eight-episode historical drama series that delves into the complex world of one of Ireland’s most iconic families. Created by Steven Knight, renowned for his work on “Peaky Blinders,” the series promises a compelling narrative of ambition, rivalry, and legacy, set against the rich backdrop of 19th-century Dublin and New York.
A Dynasty’s Crucible: The Plot Unfolds
“House of Guinness” centers on the immediate aftermath of the death of Sir Benjamin Guinness, the patriarch responsible for transforming his family’s brewery into a global powerhouse. His passing in 1868 triggers a dramatic reckoning for his four adult children – Arthur, Edward, Anne, and Benjamin – as they grapple with the weighty terms of his will and the immense responsibility of maintaining and expanding the Guinness empire. The series explores not only their personal struggles and burgeoning ambitions but also the intricate web of relationships and the turbulent socio-political landscape of the era.
The narrative weaves together themes of sibling rivalry, power struggles, and the clash between tradition and progress. While drawing inspiration from real historical events and figures, “House of Guinness” takes dramatic liberties to craft an engaging story, blending fact with fiction to explore the “zest and lust for life” that characterized the Guinness clan, as described by creator Steven Knight. The show has been compared to “Succession” for its portrayal of intra-family conflict over an empire, and to “The Crown” for its historical sweep and period detail.
Behind the Brew: Key Figures and Creative Vision
Steven Knight, an Oscar-nominated writer, lends his signature style to “House of Guinness,” known for its blend of historical settings with modern sensibilities and dramatic flair. The series is directed by Tom Shankland and Mounia Akl, with an original concept developed by Ivana Lowell, a descendant of the Guinness family.
The ensemble cast features a mix of acclaimed actors and rising stars. Anthony Boyle portrays Arthur Guinness, the eldest son and expected heir, grappling with the pressures of leadership and a complicated personal life. Louis Partridge stars as Edward Guinness, Arthur’s ambitious younger brother, tasked with co-running the brewery. Emily Fairn plays Anne Plunket (née Guinness), whose story highlights the constraints placed upon women in Victorian society, while Fionn O’Shea embodies Benjamin Guinness, the youngest sibling, who struggles with personal demons. Other notable cast members include James Norton as the enigmatic family fixer Sean Rafferty, Dervla Kirwan as Aunt Agnes Guinness, Jack Gleeson as Byron Hedges, and Niamh McCormack as Ellen Cochrane.
A Brewing Storm: Historical Context and Themes
“House of Guinness” is set against the backdrop of 19th-century Dublin, a city experiencing significant social and political unrest. The series touches upon the tensions between the Protestant Ascendancy, represented by the Guinness family’s close ties to the British Empire, and the burgeoning Irish nationalist movement, the Fenians. This historical context adds layers of conflict and intrigue to the family’s internal power struggles.
Key themes explored in the series include the weight of legacy, the corrupting influence of power and wealth, the challenges of forging individual identity within a powerful dynasty, and the societal expectations placed upon individuals based on class and gender. The series also delves into the philanthropy and social reform efforts undertaken by members of the Guinness family, highlighting their complex role in Irish society.
Streaming Details and Audience Anticipation
All eight episodes of “House of Guinness” are available to stream simultaneously on Netflix starting today, September 25, 2025. Viewers can tune in at midnight PT or 3 am ET to begin their binge-watching journey. The show’s premiere is generating significant buzz, with early reviews praising its visual splendor, compelling performances, and Knight’s signature storytelling, though some critics note a tendency towards melodrama and historical flexibility.
The release of “House of Guinness” positions it as a major new trending TV show, offering audiences a captivating dive into a historical family saga with modern relevance. Its blend of historical drama, family conflict, and period detail makes it a highly anticipated addition to Netflix’s slate of original series releases.