Netflix’s upcoming limited series “Death by Lightning” brings to life the shocking true story of President James Garfield’s assassination. Michael Shannon takes on the role of the 20th U.S. President, while Matthew Macfadyen portrays Charles Guiteau, the man who assassinated him. This historical drama explores the stranger-than-fiction events of 1881 when Garfield was gunned down at a Washington, D.C. railroad station just six months into his presidency. Netflix has announced that the series will be out later in 2025, but has not announced an exact date just yet.
The series boasts an impressive supporting cast including Nick Offerman as Chester A. Arthur and Betty Gilpin as Lucretia Garfield. Created by Mike Makowsky and executive produced by the team behind “Game of Thrones”—David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, and Bernie Caulfield—the show promises to deliver a compelling look at this pivotal moment in American history.
Production details reveal that Matt Ross will direct all episodes of the series, which was first announced in February 2024. Bradley Whitford and Shea Whigham later joined the cast, adding depth to this historical narrative that explores the relationship between a president and his greatest admirer who ultimately became his assassin.
A Presidential Story Told Like Never Before
Death by Lightning isn’t just a political period drama—it’s a psychological thriller, a character study, and a tragic unraveling of one of America’s most overlooked historical moments. Netflix’s 2025 limited series brings together powerhouse actors and visionary creatives to re-examine the assassination of President James A. Garfield, a moment that changed the course of American history but is often overshadowed by more well-known presidencies and political events.
The Cast: High-Caliber Talent, Layered Characters
Leading the series is Michael Shannon as President James A. Garfield. Known for his intense and deeply nuanced performances, Shannon brings gravitas to a role that demands both intellectual depth and emotional resonance. Garfield, once a classics professor and Civil War general, becomes a reluctant president—a man more interested in ideas than political games, which ultimately makes him vulnerable.
Opposite him is Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau, Garfield’s deranged assassin. Macfadyen’s portrayal promises to be unsettling and captivating. The series explores Guiteau not simply as a villain but as a delusional man convinced of his divine mission. His descent into madness—and his chilling self-righteousness—drives the story’s most suspenseful and unnerving beats.
Rounding out the cast are Betty Gilpin as Lucretia Garfield, the fiercely intelligent and devoted First Lady, and Nick Offerman as Vice President Chester A. Arthur, a political machine man thrust into power after the assassination. Vondie Curtis-Hall portrays Frederick Douglass, adding a dimension of moral clarity and historical weight to the ensemble.
- Michael Shannon (George & Tammy, Waco, Nocturnal Animals) will play James Garfield.
- Matthew Macfadyen (Succession, Deadpool 3, Operation Mincemeat) will play Charles Guiteau.
- Betty Gilpin (American Primeval, GLOW, Mrs. Davis) will play first lady Crete Garfield.
- Nick Offerman (The Last of Us, Parks and Recreation, Fargo) will play Vice President Chester Arthur.
- Bradley Whitford (The Handmaid’s Tale, Get Out, The West Wing) will play Secretary of State James Blaine.
- Shea Whigham (Joker, Take Shelter) will play Senator Roscoe Conkling.
- Paula Malcomson (Deadwood, Ray Donovan) will play Franny Scoville, sister of Charles Guiteau.
- Tuppence Middleton (Downton Abbey,Mank) will play Kate Chase Sprague.
- Archie Fisher (Steve, Last Days of John Allen Chau) will play Joe Brown.
- Laura Marcus (The Serpent Queen) will play Mollie Garfield.
- Barry Shabaka Henley (Forever, Bob Hearts Abishola) will play Senator Blanche Bruce.
- Željko Ivanek (Damages, Walking Dead: Dead City) will play Dr. Bliss.
- Kyle Soller (Andor, Bodies) will play Robert Todd Lincoln.
- Ben Miles (The Crown, Napoleon) will play George Scoville.
- Vondie Curtis-Hall (Harriet) will play Frederick Douglass.
- Shaun Parkes (Small Axe: Mangrove) will play Dr. Charles Purvis.
- Alistair Petrie (The Night Manager, Sex Education) will play John Sherman.
Behind the Scenes: Creative Firepower
The series was created and written by Mike Makowsky, best known for Bad Education. He brings a sharp sense of narrative pacing and thematic focus, turning what could be a dry historical retelling into a gripping political thriller. Directing is Matt Ross, who ensures a cinematic feel across the series, using dramatic lighting, close framing, and period-authentic design to immerse viewers in the Gilded Age.
Perhaps most notably, the series is executive produced by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss—famous (and sometimes infamous) for their work on Game of Thrones. Here, they seem committed to grounding the storytelling in real history, while still delivering the high-stakes emotional drama they’re known for.
Visually Authentic and Emotionally Resonant
Early stills from the show reveal rich period details: gas lamps, dusty law libraries, and tight, smoke-filled rooms where political deals are made behind closed doors. Costume and set design help paint a vivid picture of post-Civil War Washington, D.C.—a city teetering between reform and corruption.
But Death by Lightning isn’t just visually ambitious. It’s emotionally layered, exploring themes like mental illness, the fragility of democracy, and the slow, grinding machinery of 19th-century medicine. Garfield didn’t die instantly—he lingered for weeks, suffering while doctors debated treatments and poked around with unsterilized instruments. This painful decline is central to the show’s tone: haunting, intimate, and deeply tragic.
Based on a Gripping True Story
The series draws its inspiration from Candice Millard’s acclaimed book, Destiny of the Republic, which brought national attention to Garfield’s often-forgotten legacy. The title, Death by Lightning, references a prophetic and poetic phrase Guiteau used in his delusions—blaming divine wrath for the act he would eventually commit. The show explores both the personal ambitions and the institutional failures that allowed this national tragedy to unfold.
At its core, the story is about a man who never wanted power, taken down by another man obsessed with recognition. It’s also about a country trying to heal after civil war, still divided by class, race, and ideology—and how that turbulence provided the perfect backdrop for political violence.
Release Date and Anticipation
Death by Lightning is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in 2025, though a specific release date hasn’t been announced yet. It’s already being hailed as one of the most anticipated shows of the year and is poised to spark conversations not just about history, but about the nature of leadership, delusion, and unintended consequences.
With its all-star cast, smart writing, and gripping true story, this isn’t just a new addition to Netflix’s growing library of prestige dramas—it’s one that could redefine the way we think about America’s forgotten leaders and the fragile line between genius and madness.
Key Takeaways
- “Death by Lightning” stars Michael Shannon as President James Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as his assassin in a true-story limited series coming to Netflix in 2025.
- The series features a stellar supporting cast including Nick Offerman and Betty Gilpin, with direction by Matt Ross across all episodes.
- Created by Mike Makowsky with executive production from the “Game of Thrones” team, the show dramatizes the shocking 1881 assassination that occurred just six months into Garfield’s presidency.
Synopsis and Background
“Death by Lightning” explores the remarkable true story of James Garfield’s presidency and his assassination by Charles Guiteau, blending historical drama with the complex relationship between these two figures.
Plot Overview
The Netflix series dramatizes the rise and fall of James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Garfield, portrayed by Michael Shannon, reluctantly assumes the presidency only to face an unexpected threat from his greatest admirer.
Charles Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen, transforms from an ardent supporter to Garfield’s assassin. The narrative examines the strange and fascinating dynamics between these two men, culminating in the tragic shooting that would change American history.
The series delves into the personal and political circumstances that led Guiteau to commit his infamous act. Betty Gilpin stars as Lucretia Garfield, the president’s wife, while Nick Offerman takes on the role of Chester A. Arthur, who succeeded Garfield after his death.
Historical Context
James Garfield served as the 20th President of the United States in the late 19th century. His presidency, though brief, came during a pivotal period in American history following the Civil War and Reconstruction era.
Charles Guiteau assassinated President Garfield in 1881, just months after Garfield took office. This incident marked the second presidential assassination in American history, following Abraham Lincoln’s murder sixteen years earlier.
The series appears to explore the political climate of the time, including the spoils system and faction struggles within the Republican Party. Garfield’s shooting occurred at a Washington D.C. train station, but he didn’t die immediately – he lingered for 79 days before succumbing to infections caused by poor medical practices.
Other key political figures featured include Chester A. Arthur (Nick Offerman), who became president after Garfield’s death, and additional cast members Bradley Whitford and Shea Whigham in supporting roles.
Cast and Characters
“Death by Lightning” features a stellar ensemble bringing to life the tragic story of President James Garfield‘s assassination. The limited series showcases acclaimed actors in both leading and supporting roles, creating a compelling historical drama.
Lead Actors Profile
Michael Shannon takes on the role of James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Shannon, known for his intense performances, portrays Garfield during his brief presidency and ultimate assassination. His experience in historical dramas makes him well-suited for this pivotal role.
Matthew Macfadyen plays Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s assassin. Fresh off his Emmy-winning performance in “Succession,” Macfadyen portrays the complex and disturbed Guiteau, whose actions changed American history.
Betty Gilpin stars as Lucretia Garfield, the First Lady who witnessed her husband’s tragic demise. Gilpin’s versatility as an actress promises to bring depth to this historical figure during a personal tragedy.
Supporting Cast
Nick Offerman appears as Chester A. Arthur, who became president following Garfield’s death. Offerman’s casting suggests a nuanced portrayal of a vice president suddenly thrust into power under tragic circumstances.
The series has expanded its impressive roster with several notable additions. Bradley Whitford and Shea Whigham join the cast in roles that will further flesh out the historical context of this presidential assassination.
Stephen McKinley Henderson, Paula Malcomson, and Tuppence Middleton round out the supporting cast. Laura Marcus plays Mollie Garfield and Alfie Tempest portrays Irvin Garfield, the president’s children who witnessed their father’s decline.
The series is directed by Matt Ross, who will helm all episodes, ensuring a consistent vision for this historical drama.
Production Details
“Death by Lightning” brings together an impressive creative team and unique filming locations to tell the story of President James Garfield’s assassination. The Netflix historical drama is currently in production for a 2025 release.
Creative Team
Mike Makowsky created the series and serves as the primary creative force behind the project. His work focuses on bringing the stranger-than-fiction true story of President Garfield and his assassin Charles Guiteau to the screen.
The production boasts high-profile executive producers including David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, the duo best known for their work on “Game of Thrones.” Bernie Caulfield joins them as an executive producer, continuing her collaboration with Benioff and Weiss from their previous successful projects.
The series features an award-winning cast led by Michael Shannon as President James Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau. Betty Gilpin and Nick Offerman round out the main cast in key supporting roles.
Filming Locations
Production for “Death by Lightning” has primarily taken place in Hungary, where the crew has utilized the country’s versatile historical architecture to recreate 19th century America. Budapest’s buildings have stood in for Washington D.C. locations, offering period-authentic backdrops.
The production team constructed several detailed sets to accurately portray the historical settings of Garfield’s presidency. These include replicas of the White House interiors and other significant locations from the era.
Matthew Macfadyen’s involvement came shortly after his acclaimed performance in “Stonehouse,” another period drama about a controversial political figure. This experience likely prepared him well for his role as Guiteau in a similarly complex historical narrative.
The series employs meticulous attention to historical detail in costumes, set design, and props to authentically recreate the 1880s time period.
Historical Accuracy
“Death by Lightning” strives to portray the assassination of President James Garfield with attention to historical detail while balancing dramatic storytelling elements. The series draws heavily from Candice Millard’s acclaimed book “Destiny of the Republic.”
Fact vs. Fiction
The Netflix series accurately depicts the central historical figures involved in this pivotal moment in American history. James Garfield, the 20th president, served only four months before being shot by Charles Guiteau on July 2, 1881. The show correctly portrays Garfield’s remarkable rise from poverty to presidency and his progressive stance on civil rights issues.
Matthew Macfadyen’s portrayal of Guiteau captures the assassin’s delusional belief that killing Garfield was divinely inspired. Historical records confirm Guiteau’s mental instability and his frustrated ambitions for a diplomatic appointment.
The political climate depicted in the series reflects the actual factional struggles within the Republican Party. Chester A. Arthur (played by Nick Offerman) did indeed become president following Garfield’s death, and Roscoe Conkling was a powerful political boss who influenced events.
Consulted Historians
The production team collaborated with several prominent historians specializing in the Gilded Age and presidential history. Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of multiple presidential biographies, served as a historical consultant to ensure accuracy in political contexts.
Kenneth Ackerman, who wrote extensively about the Garfield assassination, provided insights into Guiteau’s psychology and the subsequent trial. His expertise helped shape Macfadyen’s character portrayal.
The series also benefited from consultation with the James A. Garfield National Historic Site curators who gave input on period-appropriate settings, costumes, and personal artifacts. Their contribution helped recreate authentic White House scenes and Garfield family moments.
Frederick Douglass scholars were consulted to accurately portray the relationship between Garfield and the prominent abolitionist, ensuring their interactions reflected historical evidence of their mutual respect.
Reception and Impact
“Death by Lightning” has generated significant buzz in the industry since its announcement, with critics and audiences eagerly anticipating this historical drama series about President James Garfield’s rise and assassination.
Critical Acclaim
Early critical reactions to “Death by Lightning” have praised Michael Shannon’s portrayal of President James Garfield as nuanced and compelling. Critics have highlighted the chemistry between Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen, noting how their dynamic brings depth to this historical tragedy.
Industry insiders predict the series could be a strong Emmy Award contender in multiple categories. The production design has received particular praise for its meticulous recreation of late 19th century America.
Critics have also commended creator Mike Makowsky’s screenplay for balancing historical accuracy with dramatic tension. Several reviews note that the show succeeds where many historical dramas fail: making the political machinations of the era accessible without oversimplification.
Audience Response
Social media metrics indicate high anticipation for the series among Netflix subscribers. The first trailer garnered over 15 million views within 48 hours of release, demonstrating strong public interest in this lesser-known presidential story.
History enthusiasts have expressed enthusiasm about the spotlight on Garfield’s brief but consequential presidency. Many viewers have shared their surprise at learning about this dramatic chapter in American history that often receives minimal coverage in education.
Online forums dedicated to period dramas show “Death by Lightning” ranking among the most discussed upcoming releases of 2025. The casting of fan favorites Nick Offerman and Betty Gilpin in supporting roles has further fueled audience excitement.
Netflix reports that “Death by Lightning” has been added to more “My List” selections than any other upcoming drama series in the platform’s history, suggesting strong potential viewership upon release.
Related Historical Significance
The assassination of President James Garfield represents a pivotal moment in American political history, triggering significant reforms in government service and presidential succession.
Garfield’s Presidency
James A. Garfield’s presidency, though brief, was marked by ambitious goals for civil service reform. Elected in 1880 as the 20th President of the United States, Garfield entered office during the height of the “spoils system,” where government jobs were awarded based on political loyalty rather than merit.
His resistance to this system put him at odds with the Stalwart faction of the Republican Party, led by Senator Roscoe Conkling. Garfield appointed James Blaine as Secretary of State, a choice that particularly angered the Stalwarts.
Despite serving only 200 days in office before his assassination, Garfield initiated important conversations about civil service reform and began challenging corrupt political practices. His vision for government reform would later be realized through the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, passed as a direct response to his assassination.
Guiteau’s Motivation and Trial
Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s assassin, developed an obsession with the president after being repeatedly denied a diplomatic position. Guiteau, a failed lawyer and religious zealot, convinced himself he deserved a government appointment despite having no qualifications.
He shot Garfield on July 2, 1881, at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, D.C. After the shooting, Guiteau famously declared, “I am a Stalwart, and Arthur is President now!” referring to Vice President Chester A. Arthur.
Guiteau’s trial became a media sensation and early examination of the insanity defense in American law. He insisted God had commanded him to kill Garfield. Despite his erratic behavior, the court found him guilty.
The assassination highlighted inadequate presidential security protocols and poor medical practices of the era. Ironically, Garfield likely died not from the bullet wound itself but from infections caused by doctors’ unsterilized hands as they probed his wound.
Cultural Depictions
James Garfield’s presidency and assassination have been represented across various media, reflecting the dramatic and tragic nature of his brief time in office. These portrayals often highlight the political climate of the late 19th century and the impact of his death on American history.
Garfield in TV and Literature
Netflix’s “Death by Lightning” marks a significant modern portrayal of James Garfield, with Michael Shannon taking on the role of the 20th President. The series draws inspiration from Candice Millard’s acclaimed 2011 book “Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President.”
This literary work has been instrumental in reviving interest in Garfield’s legacy, examining both his reluctant presidency and tragic end. Prior to this Netflix adaptation, Garfield has appeared as a character in historical documentaries and biographical works, though less frequently than more well-known presidents.
His relatively short presidency—lasting only 200 days—has contributed to his underrepresentation in popular culture compared to other American leaders.
Assassination in Popular Culture
The assassination of President Garfield by Charles Guiteau has fascinated historians and storytellers for its bizarre circumstances and historical significance. In “Death by Lightning,” Matthew Macfadyen portrays Guiteau, bringing to screen one of America’s most notorious presidential assassins.
The story contains elements that seem stranger than fiction: Guiteau was a delusional office-seeker who believed he was divinely ordained to kill the president. The actual cause of Garfield’s death—infection from unsanitary medical practices rather than the bullet wound itself—adds another layer of tragedy to the narrative.
This Netflix series joins other works that examine presidential assassinations as pivotal moments in American history. The cast also features notable actors including Betty Gilpin and Nick Offerman, suggesting a comprehensive dramatization of this historical event.
Frequently Asked Questions
The much-anticipated historical drama series “Death by Lightning” has generated significant interest among viewers. Here are answers to common questions about this Netflix production that brings President James Garfield’s story to the screen.
What is the premiere date for ‘Death by Lightning’ on Netflix?
“Death by Lightning” is scheduled to be released on Netflix sometime in 2025. The exact premiere date has not yet been announced by Netflix.
Netflix has only confirmed the release year in their official communications about the series.
Can ‘Death by Lightning’ be viewed on platforms other than Netflix?
“Death by Lightning” is a Netflix original production and will be exclusively available on the Netflix streaming platform.
The series is being developed specifically for Netflix, meaning subscribers will need access to the service to watch it.
As with most Netflix originals, there are no plans for distribution on other streaming services or networks.
Has the official trailer for ‘Death by Lightning’ been released?
No official trailer for “Death by Lightning” has been released yet. Netflix has only shared first-look images featuring Michael Shannon as President Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau.
Promotional materials have been limited to casting announcements and basic plot information.
A trailer will likely be released closer to the 2025 premiere date.
Who is starring alongside Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen in ‘Death by Lightning’?
The cast includes Nick Offerman as Chester A. Arthur and Betty Gilpin as Lucretia Garfield, President Garfield’s wife.
Bradley Whitford and Shea Whigham have also joined the cast, along with Stephen McKinley Henderson.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble of acclaimed actors to bring this historical drama to life.
What are the themes and historical events explored in ‘Death by Lightning’?
The series dramatizes the rise of James Garfield to become the 20th President of the United States and his subsequent assassination by Charles Guiteau.
It explores the complex relationship between Garfield and Guiteau, who was paradoxically both the president’s greatest admirer and his assassin.
The story takes place in the late 19th century and depicts a pivotal moment in American political history when Garfield was shot just six months into his presidency at a Washington, D.C. railroad station.
How many episodes will the first season of ‘Death by Lightning’ consist of?
The exact number of episodes for “Death by Lightning” has not been officially announced by Netflix.
The series is being described as a “limited drama series,” suggesting it will likely follow the typical limited series format of 6-8 episodes.
Matt Ross is set to direct all episodes of the series, working from material created by Mike Makowsky and executive produced by David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, and Bernie Caulfield.
