What Netflix’s House of Guinness Can Teach Us About the Importance of Having a Will

My husband and I recently watched House of Guinness on Netflix—a gripping period drama that opens with the death of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, the 19th-century patriarch of the Guinness brewing empire. The series dives into the reading of his Will, where he leaves control of the brewery and other assets to just two of his four children. But there’s a catch: the inheritance is conditional—they must run the business together, or risk losing it.

While this plot twist is fictionalized for dramatic effect[1], it’s rooted in real history. Benjamin did, in fact, leave joint control of the brewery to his sons Arthur and Edward[4]. But imagine if there had been no Will at all. The outcome would have been far more chaotic—and legally complex.

What Happens Without a Will in Ontario?

In Ontario, if someone dies without a Will, their estate is distributed according to the Succession Law Reform Act. This legislation sets out a rigid formula based on family relationships—not personal wishes. That means:

• You don’t get to choose who inherits your assets.

• You can’t specify how particular items (like a family cottage or business) should be handled.

• You don’t control who administers your estate.

• You increase the risk of family disputes and delays.

  
  

For example, if you’re married with children, your spouse receives the first \$350,000 of your estate. The remainder is split—one-third to your spouse, and two-thirds to your children. If you’re in a common-law relationship, your partner may receive nothing automatically under intestacy laws[3].

Why a Will Is More Than Just a Legal Document

Many people avoid making a Will because it feels uncomfortable or overwhelming. Some worry about family disagreements, especially when discussing sentimental assets like a cottage or heirloom. Others don’t know how to handle estranged relatives or complex family dynamics.

But that’s exactly why a Will is so important. It’s your opportunity to:

• Make clear, thoughtful decisions about your legacy.

• Protect loved ones from unnecessary stress and conflict.

• Ensure your wishes are respected.

• Minimize taxes and legal costs.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Working with a lawyer ensures your Will is more than just a template. It’s a carefully crafted plan that reflects your unique personal and financial circumstances. A lawyer will:

• Ask the right questions to uncover your true intentions.

• Help you navigate sensitive family issues.

• Consider tax-saving strategies.

• Draft a Will that’s legally sound and tailored to your goals.

Final Thought:

House of Guinness may be fiction, but the message is real: a Will gives you control over your legacy. Don’t leave your future to chance—or to the courts.