Everyone is already obsessed with Netflix's latest drama the House Of Guinness, which lands on our screens this week. The star-studded line up features Anthony Boyle, Louis Partridge, Emily Fairn and James Norton, and will tell the story of the legendary Guinness family who changed the face of brewing forever.
But alongside the business, the eight-part series will document the sibling rivalries, politics and tensions at the heart of the Guinness empire. What makes this even more compelling is that the story is based on the IRL Guinness family, one of the most fascinating dynasties around.
Here's what we know about Benjamin Guinness' eldest son, Arthur Guinness...
Who is Arthur Guinness?
In this Succession-style story, Arthur Guinness is the eldest of the four sons, and is the heir to the enormous Guinness empire. In the show, we are introduced to Arthur at his father's funeral, but rather than crying, Arthur appears to be angry. Two days later, the will is read that reveals Arthur will inherit his father's empire, which stretched from the infamous brewery to properties all over Ireland.
IRL, we know that Arthur was a pretty generous person. He was deeply philanthropic, contributing to cultural and healthcare institutions in Dublin, including the restoration of Marsh’s Library and expansion of the Coombe Women’s Hospital.
Who plays Arthur Guinness in The House of Guinness?
In House of Guinness, Arthur is portrayed by Anthony Boyle. Speaking about his character, Boyle said: 'Arthur is less interested in the brewery and is a bit more of a renaissance man,' continuing 'He likes f***ing, likes drinking and likes having the crack and unfortunately after his father dies, he receives his will and has to run this brewery and does not want to be doing that.'
He adds: 'He would rather be in London having fun but instead, he has to come back to Dublin and that is where the story begins.'
How old is Arthur Guinness in The House Of Guinness
We aren't entirely sure. Since the show opens just after the death of his father, Sir Benjamin Guinness, in 1868, that would make Arthur about 27–28 years old at that point in the story
Was Arthur Guinness married?
Yes, Arthur Guinness married Olivia Hedges-White in 1871. In the show, Lady Olivia is played by Dervla Kirwan, who you might know from her roles in Ballykissangel and Goodnight Sweetheart. They didn't have any children, which meant Arthur's barony became extinct when he died. This meant the Guinness family line continued through other branches of the family.
Alice Hall is the Staff Writer at Grazia UK. She was previously a Junior Features Writer for The Daily Telegraph. At Grazia, she writes news and features about pop culture, dating, health, politics and interiors.