Founded in Ireland in the 18th century, Guinness has stood the test of time. Not only is it a cultural status symbol and a drinking game in its own right, but it became Britain's most popular draught beer in 2023 (apparently one in nine UK pints is a Guinness).
But hidden amongst the barrels of the delicious, dark drink is a family history just as rich. It's unsurprising, then, that Netflix decided now is the perfect time to tell the Guinness dynasty's story in House of Guinness. If you plan to spend your weekend binging on all eight episodes (with a well-poured Guinness in hand) and want to know more about Anne Plunket née Guinness then you've come to the right place.
Who is Anne Plunket from House of Guinness?
Lady Anne Plunket née Guinness was born in 1839 and was the only daughter of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, 1st Baronet. She was the great granddaughter of the 'first Arthur Guinness', an Irish brewer who founded the Guinness Brewery at St James's Gate in 1759.
Anne married William Plunket, 4th Baron Plunket, in June 1863 and they had two sons and four daughters – William Plunket, Elizabeth Plunket, Benjamin Plunket, Olivia Plunket, Kathleen Plunket and Ethel Plunket.
While Benjamin Guinness, Anne's father, was restoring St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, she became involved in causes helping the poor and later established St Patrick's nursing home in 1876, which became a training centre for Church of Ireland nurses.
For a large portion of her adult life, Anne suffered from a degenerative illness and died at Old Connaught House on 8 November 1889. She is commemorated with a series of stained-glass windows depicting the works of Dorcas in St Patrick's Cathedral.
Who plays Anne Plunket in House of Guinness?
Anne is played by Emily Fairn in the Netflix drama about the Guinness dynasty and their brewery empire. You might recognise her from The Responder with Martin Freeman on BBC. She's also starred in Saturday Night where she played Laraine Newman.
What was Anne Plunket's job?
Anne was a philanthropist and did not work directly for her family's stout company. As well as setting up St Patrick's nursing home, Anne assisted in educational projects including an extension of Alexandra College and the establishment of the Irish Clergy Daughters' School at Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin.
What is House of Guinness about?
The eight-part series by Steven Knight centres on the family behind the Guinness brewing company in 19th century Ireland and New York, and the consequences following the death of Benjamin Guinness (Anne's father), the man responsible for the extraordinary success of the Guinness brewery, and the fate of his four adult children, Arthur, Edward, Anne and Ben.
Where can I watch House of Guinness?
The entire series is now available to stream on Netflix. If you want to find out more about how the modern day Guinness' feel about the series, read Grazia's recent interview with Daphne Guinness, who calls the name 'a blessing and a curse'.
Nikki Peach is a writer at Grazia UK, working across entertainment, TV and news. She has also written for the i, i-D and the New Statesman Media Group and covers all things pop culture for Grazia (treating high and lowbrow with equal respect).