
There’s nothing I love more than opulent period pieces about family dynasties just brimming with controversy and scandal. Yet what makes these prestige television shows even more riveting is when I discover they’re based on real-life events!
For those of you who are obsessing over Peaky Blinders’ creator Steve Knight’s new Netflix series, House of Guinness, you’ll be surprised to learn just how shocking and tragic the dynasty’s real-life circumstances turned out to be. In fact, the Netflix series seems to barely scratch the surface when it comes to the real-life scathing drama between the family members of the Guinness Dynasty.
Why is it always the families with the utmost important reputations to uphold that are always storing the darkest secrets just underneath the surface?
Steve Knight Says the Crazier Plotlines on 'House of Guinness' Are Based On Real Life

According to the series creator, the more unrealistic and implausible the storyline on House of Guinness, the more likely it was to come from real life rather than his imagination. He said while speaking to Town and Country magazine, “When people look it up, they’ll find that the things that seem to be made up are all true, and the things that seem sort of normal and likely are made up. The more outlandish things in the show, they’re always real.”
I guess in some cases, art really does imitate life! That would explain the whole “This fiction is inspired by true stories” disclaimer that pops up at the start of every House of Guinness episode.
What’s the Real-Life Piping Tea On the Guinness Dynasty?
They don’t just make delicious beer; they also brew up delicious scandal. But what from the series is true to real life?
The Tumultuous Succession Story
Before Shiv, Roman, and Kendall, there was the Guinness family, battling over who got to rule the Guinness dynasty following the death of the patriarch. Just how would they manage to get by without their father’s influence?
Arthur’s Sexuality Could Have Led To A Lifetime Behind Bars
This was 19th-century Ireland, it had some pretty messed-up laws in place when it came to one’s sexual orientation. Anyone who led an openly gay life would be sentenced to life behind bars. This certainly creates heightened tension and fear for Arthur, who, in real life, most biographers presume to be gay.
The Scandalous Affair Between Edward and Ellen
While it’s uncertain as to whether or not Ellen is a real person, the truth of the matter is, this particular dynasty was willing to go through any means necessary in order to improve their business. This includes Edward not going for his true heart’s desire, Ellen, in order to maintain his image. It’s sad, but true. Perhaps they’ll rekindle their romance in season 2?
What are your thoughts on the riveting series?