Acting Up: 'Death by Lightning': Michael Shannon & Matthew Macfadyen Electrify in Netflix’s Forgotten-History Thriller

Acting Up: 'Death by Lightning' on Netflix

Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen deliver powerful performances in Death by Lightning, a gripping historical drama on Netflix that revives the nearly forgotten tale of President James Garfield’s assassination.

The Story Behind the Series

The show recounts the true events of 1881 involving James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, and his assassin Charles Guiteau. It highlights a pivotal but overlooked moment in American history. All four episodes of Death by Lightning are available to stream on Netflix.

Historical Context and Creative Approach

The series opens by acknowledging that both Garfield and Guiteau have faded from public memory. Garfield’s brief presidency, lasting only a few months, left little mark, contributing to his obscurity. While not widely recognized beyond scholars, his status as one of only 45 U.S. presidents remains significant.

Writer Mike Makowsky adapts Candice Millard’s nonfiction book with fidelity, maintaining historical accuracy while utilizing the inherently dramatic real-life details. This approach allows the story to unfold compellingly without excessive fictionalization.

Outstanding Performances

Their performances drive the narrative and bring sharp focus to this forgotten chapter of American history.

"The fact is, the real details are enough to tell a compelling story without having to fudge too much."

— Commentary on the series' faithful storytelling approach

Author’s Summary

Death by Lightning reanimates a near-forgotten historical episode through outstanding acting and a faithful, gripping narrative that makes the past vividly present.

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Casting Networks Casting Networks — 2025-11-03

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