The new Netflix drama House of Guinness introduces viewers to a world of power, family, and political rebellion in 1860s Dublin. Among its many compelling characters is Ellen Cochrane, a determined woman fighting for Irish independence. If you’re wondering who brings this character to life, you’ve come to the right place.
Who Is Ellen Cochrane in ‘House of Guinness’?
Ellen Cochrane is a fictional character in the series, but she represents the very real political struggles of 19th-century Ireland. She is a passionate member of the Fenian Brotherhood, a revolutionary nationalist movement dedicated to establishing an Irish republic. Ellen is strategic, intelligent, and uses her wit to navigate a patriarchal society where women had little power.
She is the younger sister of Patrick Cochrane, the more impulsive leader of the Fenians. While both are devoted to the cause, Ellen is often the brains behind their operations, preferring strategy over brute force. The show places her in direct opposition to the powerful Guinness family, whom the Fenians view as symbols of the oppressive British ruling class.
The character may have been inspired by real historical figures, such as the poet and activist Ellen O’Leary, who contributed nationalist writings to the Fenian newspaper The Irish People and was involved with the Ladies’ Committee, a group that offered women a route into politics.
The Actress Behind the Role: Niamh McCormack
The role of Ellen Cochrane is played by Irish actress Niamh McCormack. McCormack felt an immediate connection to the character from her first reading of the script. She described it as a “cosmic moment of feeling like, I think this is my story to tell.”
“As soon as I read Ellen’s scenes, I had such a visceral reaction to her. I really felt like it was my job to bring her to life,” McCormack told Netflix’s Tudum.
She further described Ellen as “strong, fierce, passionate — and, as a woman in 1800s Ireland, she didn’t have much of anything, especially in terms of political power or respect. But she does a lot with what she has, and her influence makes a big impact.”
McCormack has a personal link to this period of history, noting she is a “direct descendent of a first lieutenant of the IRB” (Irish Republican Brotherhood), which made telling this story particularly meaningful for her.
Bringing the Character to Life
McCormack worked closely with the show’s makeup and costume designers to create Ellen’s distinct look, which was meant to help her gain respect in a male-dominated world. The actress explained that Ellen’s costume “walks the line between masculinity and femininity.” She presents a strong, masculine front publicly, but the story reveals her softer, more romantic side.
The actress even created a mood board for the character before filming began, drawn to an image of an Irish woman with long ginger hair leading a group of people with an Irish flag. The show’s makeup designer, Konnie Daniel, shared the same vision, resulting in Ellen’s memorable appearance.
Where You’ve Seen Niamh McCormack Before
While House of Guinness is a major role for Niamh McCormack, she is no stranger to screen work. Global audiences might recognize her from other popular series and films. Her previous roles include:
· Alison in the drama Everything Now
· A role in the fantasy series The Witcher
· Appearances in The Magic Flute and Willow
Ellen’s Role in the Story
Set just 20 years after the Great Famine in Ireland, House of Guinness shows a country dealing with generational trauma and deep political divides. McCormack highlighted that this context is key to understanding her character’s drive.
“House of Guinness takes place just 20 years after the famine. There was a generational silence and trauma. She would’ve seen a lot growing up, and I think that’s why she’s so passionate about Irish independence,” she said.
Within the show’s drama, Ellen becomes a love interest for Edward Guinness (played by Louis Partridge), the ambitious youngest son of the brewing family. This relationship creates a tense and complicated dynamic, pulling Edward between his family’s legacy and his feelings for a woman whose political goals threaten everything the Guinnesses stand for.
Also Read: Will There Be House of Guinness Season 2? Renewal Possibilities and More
Credits: Netflix Tudum, History Extra, Town & Country
