Why Arthur’s cruel ultimatum to Olivia in House of Guinness’s finale has actually sealed his fate

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Steven Knight’s captivating historical drama House of Guinness begins with scenes of conflict and damage. The breaking of a Guinness bottle and the burning of a representation set the stage for the thrilling eight-episode series, which quickly escalates into even more intense turmoil (frequently caused by Sean Rafferty, the aggressive Guinness foreman, portrayed by James Norton).

People made many threats, some with shocking indifference, but the most unsettling scene in the show turned out to be the quiet conversation between husband Arthur (Anthony Boyle) and his wife Olivia (Danielle Galligan)? It was a surprisingly chilling moment, considering it wasn’t a loud or dramatic confrontation, but a subdued tête-à-tête.

The crucial talk takes place in Arthur’s office, as their marriage of convenience (arranged to hide the Guinness owner’s true sexuality) falls apart due to the complicated emotions they all share. This includes Arthur’s feelings, her feelings, and the feelings she’s developing for her lover, Rafferty – whom she’s starting to love.

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The secrecy surrounding their relationship, blessed by Arthur, led to both forbidden love and an unexpected pregnancy. However, who considered the pregnancy unwanted?

During a private talk with his brother, Edward (Louis Partridge), who also has a stake in Guinness, Arthur admitted he couldn’t pretend Rafferty’s illegitimate son was his rightful heir.

Although the three of them quickly agreed that ending things was the only realistic choice, it was clear that both Rafferty and Olivia regretted the decision and realized they desired a more meaningful connection than just a physical one.

Rafferty and Olivia both had moments of realization, and Arthur was equally surprised to discover he loves his wife in his own way. This realization, however, made him increasingly envious of the close connection she’d developed with Rafferty.

This all seeps out during their conversation where he issues her an ultimatum.

Standing beneath the watchful eyes of his father’s portrait-a location he specifically selected, hoping the serious and practical Benjamin Guinness would firmly agree-he informs his wife that she has to make a decision.

To be with Rafferty, she would have to face the shame of their relationship being revealed, the destruction of her social standing, and a future of poverty for both of them – the scandal would prevent Rafferty from working. Alternatively, they could return to how things were, with one new rule: she and Rafferty would have to stop being intimate with each other.

Arthur’s eyes reveal a hint of vulnerability and pain, but this is largely overshadowed by the surprisingly harsh and spiteful way he asserts his power over Olivia.

Their relationship has shifted; she’s now in a position of serving him, and they are no longer on equal footing. Arthur completely disregards her recent emotional distress following the dismissal and, in the subdued light of the fireplace, he deliberately moves closer, making his threat clear.

Feeling vulnerable and scared by the difficult future Arthur described, Olivia gives in and accepts the changes he proposes to their agreement.

Although Arthur seems triumphant right now – confidently kissing her on the head and then issuing harsh commands – his actions could easily create problems down the road.

Following instructions, Olivia meets with Rafferty, but instead of breaking things off as Arthur wanted, they devise a plan. This plan allows them to continue seeing each other secretly, without Arthur finding out.

The fact that Rafferty, who was previously shown as cold and fiercely devoted to the Guinness family-sometimes resorting to violence to demonstrate it-both accepts this proposal and assures her they will eventually be together properly is quite significant.

When speaking to Digital Spy about Rafferty’s feelings for Olivia, Norton said: “Rafferty loves being Rafferty, but there’s no one else really in his orbit and then suddenly there is.

“Whilst that’s a beautiful blessing, it also brings about certain danger and threat.”

The potential risk to their connection could have been Arthur, but Rafferty’s promise to Olivia is genuine, and Rafferty is someone who demands respect.

He is very loyal to the Guinness family. However, with someone new entering his life – as Norton described it – that existing loyalty has become even more profound.

I’ve already been shocked by how far Rafferty will go when it comes to being loyal to people, but honestly, I think what he’ll do for love could be even crazier. We’ve seen a lot, but I have a feeling things are about to get really intense. I’m seriously curious to see just how far he’ll go – it’s going to be wild! You can find more about the show here.

However, Rafferty isn’t the sole danger to Arthur’s meticulously planned future. Olivia is also a formidable opponent – she’s cunning, shrewd, and always calculating her next move.

She might seem affectionate, smiling and putting her arm around her husband, but their first encounter showed that she’s capable of being shrewd and using that to get what she wants. She’s used this ability to help Arthur so far, but what will happen if she decides to go against him?

What’s more, Rafferty and Olivia together could be a dangerously formidable team.

Okay, so House of Guinness definitely follows the big historical events, which means you kind of know where things are headed. But honestly, that doesn’t stop Knight from having fun with the little details, and that could cause some serious problems for Arthur pretty soon. That’s if House of Guinness gets renewed for a second season, of course.

As of today, we still don’t know what will happen with the show, but we’re just as hopeful as the characters Rafferty and Olivia that things will work out. We’re talking about our love for the show, of course!

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2025-09-30 23:51