For Alex Conyngham, the Marquess Conyngham, life at Slane Castle is a dynamic blend of family, business, and a touch of television drama. The historic Irish estate, which has hosted legendary musicians and now serves as the backdrop for "The Traitors Ireland," is managed by Conyngham and his wife, Carina, who have diversified its operations to include a distillery, organic farm, glamping site, and event hosting.

Conyngham, who took over the business concerns from his late father, Lord Henry Mountcharles, described the castle as an "amazing blank canvas and theatrical backdrop" for "The Traitors Ireland." He proactively approached the production company, Kite Productions, when he learned they were seeking locations. "You have to be entrepreneurial when you run a place like this," Conyngham stated, emphasizing the necessity of diversifying income streams.

He noted that the castle itself has become a character in the show, a role he embraces as a way to let the estate "be the star." This mirrors the estate's history, which includes hosting major concerts, such as Queen's iconic 1986 performance, an event that deeply influenced Conyngham as a child. "He was the first one to really open my eyes to the power and magic of live music," Conyngham said of Freddie Mercury's performance. "The energy he brought that day, he lifted everybody."

Growing up in a working stately home meant that life at Slane was never entirely private. Conyngham recalled a childhood filled with events, weddings, and corporate launches alongside his parents. "We lived in the middle of all of that madness," he said.

Family Life and Challenges

Conyngham resides at Slane Castle with his wife Carina and their three children: Laragh, Hugh, and Caspar. His wife, who has a background in finance, is described by Conyngham as a "warrior by my side" and essential to the management of the estate. "She has been the making of me," he added.

The family has faced personal challenges, including their eldest daughter Laragh's diagnosis with a mild variant of Rett Syndrome. Conyngham described the journey to diagnosis as "challenging" and the regressive nature of the condition, where Laragh lost her ability to speak, as "heartbreaking." Despite the difficulties, he spoke of Laragh's resilience and the family's deep affection for her. "She is the light of my life and we're very lucky to have her in our lives," he said.

His sons, Hugh and Caspar, are praised as "amazing sons and ... brilliant brothers to Laragh." Conyngham expressed pride in them and indicated he would not pressure them to take over the family business, though he hopes they might choose to do so.

Legacy and Future at Slane

Conyngham views his role as a custodian of Slane Castle, aiming to enhance its landscape, ecology, and architectural heritage. He believes that buildings, like people, carry energy and memories, a sentiment he attributes to the families and events that have shaped the estate over generations, including his father's legacy.

Looking ahead, Slane is set to host musical guests, with Fontaines DC scheduled to play next June. Conyngham also expressed a desire to secure more international filming business for Ireland, though he noted that restrictions on tax breaks are a hurdle.

"If Carina and I leave the place and it's a little bit better than when we arrived, then we've fulfilled our role as custodians," Conyngham said. "That's a life project, I guess."

"The Traitors Ireland" airs on RTÉ One on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, and is available on the RTÉ Player.