History’s Most Bizarre Assassination Comes to Life in Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning
Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’: A Thrilling Retelling of President Garfield’s Assassination
A Shocking True Story Comes to Netflix
Netflix is set to bring a gripping historical drama to the screen with ‘Death by Lightning’, a limited series based on the life and assassination of the 20th U.S. president, James Garfield. Created by Mike Makowsky (‘Bad Education’) and produced by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss (‘Game of Thrones’, ‘3 Body Problem’), this new drama explores one of the most shocking and lesser-known assassinations in American history.
With a star-studded cast, including Michael Shannon, Matthew Macfadyen, Betty Gilpin, Nick Offerman, and Shea Whigham, ‘Death by Lightning’ promises an intense and emotional journey into the corruption, political intrigue, and tragic fate of a reluctant president.
What Is ‘Death by Lightning’ About?
Set in 1881, ‘Death by Lightning’ tells the story of James Garfield, a brilliant but reluctant leader who was thrust into the presidency. Despite his efforts to reform a corrupt political system, he became the target of Charles Guiteau, an obsessed admirer turned assassin.
Guiteau, believing he was owed a government position, became disillusioned when he was ignored by the administration. His fanatical devotion quickly turned to rage, leading to the tragic shooting of Garfield just months into his presidency. The series will explore not only the assassination but also the bizarre and often shocking aftermath, including medical malpractice and political power struggles.
According to showrunner Mike Makowsky, the themes of corruption, political maneuvering, and bureaucracy feel “incredibly relevant” today. “The idea of civil service reform and the fight against government grift was central to Garfield’s presidency, and these are issues that still resonate deeply,” Makowsky said.
Meet the Cast of ‘Death by Lightning’
This limited series boasts an impressive ensemble of award-winning actors who bring these historical figures to life:
Main Cast:
- Michael Shannon (‘George & Tammy’, ‘Waco’) as President James Garfield
- Matthew Macfadyen (‘Succession’, ‘Deadpool 3’) as Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s assassin
- Betty Gilpin (‘GLOW’, ‘Mrs. Davis’) as First Lady Crete Garfield
- Nick Offerman (‘Parks and Recreation’, ‘The Last of Us’) as Vice President Chester Arthur
- Bradley Whitford (‘The West Wing’, ‘Get Out’) as Secretary of State James Blaine
- Shea Whigham (‘Joker’, ‘Take Shelter’) as Senator Roscoe Conkling
- Paula Malcomson (‘Deadwood’) as Franny Scoville, Guiteau’s sister
- Tuppence Middleton (‘Downton Abbey’, ‘Mank’) as Kate Chase Sprague
- Željko Ivanek (‘Damages’) as Dr. Bliss, Garfield’s controversial physician
- Kyle Soller (‘Andor’) as Robert Todd Lincoln, son of Abraham Lincoln
- Vondie Curtis-Hall (‘Harriet’) as Frederick Douglass
The Creative Team Behind ‘Death by Lightning’
The show is created by Mike Makowsky, who was inspired after reading Candice Millard’s book, ‘Destiny of the Republic’, a critically acclaimed historical account of Garfield’s assassination.
The executive producers include:
- David Benioff and D.B. Weiss (‘Game of Thrones’, ‘3 Body Problem’)
- Bernie Caulfield (‘Game of Thrones’)
- Matt Ross, who also directs all episodes
Makowsky describes the project as “one of the most insane true stories I had ever heard,” blending political drama, dark humor, and historical intrigue into a compelling series.
First Look: Netflix Releases Official Photos
Netflix has released first-look images from the series, showcasing the cast in their period-accurate costumes. These stunning visuals provide a glimpse into the tense political climate of 1881 and the figures who shaped history:
- Michael Shannon as President Garfield, appearing thoughtful and determined.
- Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau, the erratic and obsessed assassin.
- Nick Offerman as Chester Arthur, a reluctant vice president caught in political chaos.
- Betty Gilpin as Crete Garfield, showcasing the personal toll of her husband’s tragic fate.
Why You Should Watch ‘Death by Lightning’
1. A Forgotten Yet Fascinating Piece of History
Many people know about Lincoln’s and Kennedy’s assassinations, but Garfield’s shocking and bizarre murder is often overlooked. This series shines a light on an incredible chapter in U.S. history.
2. From the Team Behind ‘Game of Thrones’
With Benioff and Weiss involved, expect intense political intrigue, power struggles, and unexpected twists—except this time, it’s all real.
3. A Stellar Cast
With Michael Shannon, Matthew Macfadyen, and Nick Offerman, the performances are sure to be top-notch, bringing depth to these historical figures.
4. Timely Themes of Corruption and Reform
Garfield’s fight against government corruption mirrors modern political battles, making the series both educational and eerily relevant.
When Will ‘Death by Lightning’ Be Released?
Netflix has confirmed that ‘Death by Lightning’ will premiere later this year, though an exact release date is still under wraps. Stay tuned for updates as the streaming giant prepares to unveil one of its most ambitious historical dramas yet.
