Death By Lightning: When and Where to Watch the Historical Drama on James Garfield's Life
Death by Lightning is Netflix’s new historical drama that revisits one of America’s overlooked tragedies—the assassination of President James Garfield. The limited series stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as his assassin, Charles Guiteau.
Premiere and Availability
The series premiered on Netflix on November 6 and is now available for all subscribers to stream.
Plot and Historical Context
Death by Lightning follows James Garfield’s extraordinary journey from a modest upbringing in rural Ohio to becoming the 20th President of the United States. Garfield rose from being a schoolteacher and Civil War commander to a respected statesman known for his moral integrity, vision, and commitment to reform.
The narrative portrays Garfield’s efforts to unite a nation still healing from the Civil War, highlighting his ambition to foster reconciliation and progress.
The Assassin’s Story
Charles J. Guiteau, portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen, is introduced as a minor political agitator whose unstable aspirations ultimately lead to Garfield’s assassination. Guiteau believed he deserved a political appointment for his supposed contributions to Garfield’s election, and his obsession turned deadly when recognition failed to come.
“Death by Lightning delves into the interplay of power, ambition, and delusion that defines this shocking historical story.”
Setting and Themes
Set in post–Civil War America, the series not only recounts Garfield’s brief presidency but also explores the turbulent political climate and personal ambitions driving the nation’s evolving identity.
Author’s Summary
This series captures the tragic intersection of idealism and obsession, portraying Garfield’s rise and untimely death against a backdrop of a politically fractured America.