From the Highlands, to Hollywood, to hedonism – actor Karen Gillan Unveiled as ‘The Muse’ for Compass Box Whisky’s Hedonism 2026

Karen Gillan has travelled far from Inverness to Hollywood, but now she is celebrating her roots in an unexpected way. For Compass Box’s Hedonism 2026, the Scottish actor and filmmaker steps into the role of The Muse, becoming the centrepiece of a new artwork by renowned artist Emma Hack – a collaboration that fuses Scottish heritage, contemporary female creativity, and what will become one of whisky’s most iconic bottles.      

Emma Hack is best known for her work on Gotye’s ‘Somebody That I Used to Know’ – one of the most viewed music videos of all time. Hedonism made history when it first launched in 2000, as the first Scotch whisky to place a woman at the centre of its label. This bold creative decision went one step further when, in 2023, Hedonism became a Limited Annual Release, and Compass Box began working with a different female artist each year to reimagine the original Hedonism woman in her own eyes. The tradition continues now with Karen. 

The Scottish actor and filmmaker known for her roles in Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers and Jumanji was born in Inverness – the gateway to the Highlands – and has become one of Scotland’s most successful Hollywood exports while continuing to champion independent film and female-led storytelling.

Compass Box’s Hedonism 2026 will be available for pre-order at Master of Malt, with general release from 1 March 2026 | Price RRP £90GBP | 46% ABV | 70cl | 13,126 bottles available worldwide