The True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ and the Assassination of James A. Garfield
Charles Guiteau’s bullet did not directly cause the death of the 20th president of the United States. It was a combination of ignorance, pride, and the medical interventions intended to save President Garfield that ultimately led to his demise.
Garfield had served less than four months as president when he was shot by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled supporter. More than 120 years later, the consequences of this shooting continue to influence both politics and medicine.
About the Netflix Series
The new limited series Death By Lightning, which premiered on November 6, 2025, delves into the tragic events surrounding Garfield’s death and its significance in U.S. history. The four-part series stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau.
It explores both the circumstances leading up to the assassination attempt and the doctors’ flawed efforts to save Garfield’s life.
Charles Guiteau’s Background
Born in Freeport, Illinois in 1841, Charles Julius Guiteau endured a troubled childhood.
- His mother, Jane, suffered from psychosis and passed away when he was about seven years old.
- Following her death, he was raised by his abusive father, Luther.
Medical Missteps and Political Impact
The doctors who treated Garfield operated under the standards of their time but were hampered by ignorance and misjudgments. Their interventions ultimately contributed to the president's death rather than preventing it.
"Charles Guiteau’s bullet didn’t kill the 20th president — it was ignorance, pride, and the tools meant to save his life."
This assassination and its aftermath serve as a pivotal chapter in understanding the evolution of medical practice and political security in the United States.
Death By Lightning is part of Biography.com’s special coverage, providing a detailed account of the true story behind President James A. Garfield’s assassination.
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