House of Guinness: Who is Daphne Guinness? Details from the famous Irish brewing family explored ahead of the Steven Knight drama 

The Netflix series House of Guinness premiered on September 25, 2025, and was created by Steven Knight, the name behind the popular show Peaky Blinders. The show opens with showcasing the aftermath of Sir Benjamin Guinness, who built up the brewing empire in the 19th century, progressing to how his children are dealing with their father's will and further fallout.

Though the show dramatizes and mixes the true story with fiction, highlighting the characters, romances, and betrayals that existed, some figures like Daphne Guinness are real descendants who are still alive today and have inspired the pre-production process. This is what you should know about her before watching House of Guinness.

House of Guinness: What do we know about Daphne Guinness?

Daphne's full name is Daphne Diana Joan Susanna Guinness, and she was born on November 9, 1967, in London, England. She is the daughter of Jonathan Guinness and Suzanne Lisney. Daphne, being the daughter of a wealthy family, lived a highly privileged life, but also an unconventional one. Part of her youth she spent in country houses and villas, and formed a nomadic aristocratic personality.

Amidst such upbringing, Daphne became a multifaceted creative and social figure who was inspired by theatre. Known for her avant-garde aesthetic, she was considered the muse of many designers like Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, and others. Some reports describe her as eccentric and dramatic and praise her art as she has recorded music, and also worked in films, mainly acting or producing.

How was Daphne with her family or the family brewing business?

Despite being the descendant of the famous Guinness brewing family, Daphne was not directly involved in the business, suggesting that her soul always lay somewhere else. She has expressed some mixed feelings about the company and the brewing business, stating it as both a blessing and a curse.

The business gave her a heritage, a luxury, a privilege to pursue her passion, but also burdened her with several expectations. While speaking with Grazia, Daphne said:

"I feel like I’m in a Venn diagram of stories, because between my artistic stories and the Mitford stories and the Guinness stories [it’s like being in] the eye of the storm, which can be a blessing and a curse."

She also spoke about the show by Steven Knight, stating it as "surreal." Daphne said:

"It’s fairly surreal to see my family being turned into a show. We’re longing to find out if there are any mysteries to be solved."

She also mentioned the family's plan to watch it all together and witness what mystery the show might unfold.

What do we know about the House of Guinness?

The show follows the aftermath of Sir Benjamin Guinness' death, who led the foundation of the brewing empire. The show's major focus is the will of the deceased and how it shapes the future of his four children.

The main cast includes James Norton as Sean Rafferty, Anthony Boyle as Arthur Guinness, one of Sir Benjamin’s sons. Alongside them is Louis Partridge as Edward Guinness, Emily Fairn as Anne Guinness, Sir Benjamin’s daughter. Fionn O’Shea plays Benjamin Guinness, who is another son.

Trending

Catch House of Guinness only on Netflix.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback