James A. Garfield and His Assassin in "Death by Lightning"
Writer and producer Mike Makowsky spent months obtaining government permission to view authentic historical materials. His dedication culminated in the Netflix limited series Death by Lightning, which opens with a striking re-creation of Charles J. Guiteau, the man who assassinated President James A. Garfield.
The Story Behind the Series
The newly released four-part production intertwines the lives of the 20th president of the United States, James A. Garfield, and his killer, Charles J. Guiteau. Garfield’s brief presidency ended tragically in 1881 when Guiteau shot him, an event that reshaped American politics and medical understanding of the time. Today, Garfield’s Ohio residence serves as the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, overseen by the National Park Service.
From Page to Screen
Makowsky adapted the series from Candice Millard’s 2011 historical book, Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President. The drama stars Michael Shannon as Garfield, portrayed as a man of principle, and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau, whose delusions and instability drive the tragedy.
“Death by Lightning” explores the human forces behind a national catastrophe, balancing political ambition, madness, and moral conviction.
Author’s Summary
The series Death by Lightning vividly retells the story of President Garfield’s assassination, revealing the clash of intellect, obsession, and fate that shaped a pivotal moment in U.S. history.
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