James A. Garfield and His Assassin in "Death by Lightning"
Mike Makowsky spent months securing government permission to access original materials, which is fitting for the new Netflix limited series he created, Death by Lightning. The series opens with a detailed re-creation of Charles J. Guiteau's actions and impact.
The recently released four-part series follows two intertwined stories: the life of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield, and the man who assassinated him in 1881, Charles J. Guiteau. Garfield’s former home in Mentor is preserved today as the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, overseen by the National Park Service.
Makowsky adapted the series from Candice Millard’s acclaimed 2011 book, Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President. The cast includes Michael Shannon as Garfield, portraying the president’s integrity, and Matthew Macfadyen as the disturbed Guiteau.
"Death by Lightning," begins with a re-creation of Charles J. Guiteau, who, in 1881, assassinated President Garfield, cutting his leadership short.
Makowsky adapted the series from Candice Millard’s 2011 book: Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President.
Cast Highlights
- Michael Shannon as President James A. Garfield
- Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau
This series offers a gripping look into the tragedy that ended Garfield’s presidency early, combining historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling.
Summary: The Netflix series Death by Lightning presents a compelling dramatization of President James A. Garfield’s assassination and legacy, based on Candice Millard’s acclaimed book.