'Death by Lightning' Stars on Bringing Timely Tale of Garfield & Guiteau to TV
Matthew Macfadyen, Michael Shannon, and showrunner Mike Makowsky discuss illuminating a little-known chapter in history through the new Netflix series Death by Lightning. This four-part limited series portrays the story of President James Garfield and his assassin Charles Guiteau.
Background and Inspiration
The show is based on Candice Millard’s 2011 book, Destiny of the Republic. Showrunner Mike Makowsky shares how he came across the book:
“I have to confess I knew almost nothing about Garfield. I was really just blown away by the quality of her writing and the story itself.”
“I found [the book] at the buy-two-get-one-free table at my local Barnes and Noble, and I needed a third book and I picked it up… I ended up reading the book in one sitting.”
Series Overview
The series tells the story of Garfield’s rise and assassination with a strong cast led by Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau. It moves quickly over four episodes, making it compelling and binge-worthy.
Key Moment Highlighted
Garfield starts as a modest politician supporting others, but his powerful speech at the 1880 Republican National Convention propels him to become the party’s nominee. Michael Shannon reflects on this scene:
“It’s one of the most eloquent speeches in the history of American oratory, I feel. I didn’t really have to do much other than say it out loud.”
The show sheds new light on a pivotal era and introduces audiences to forgotten historical figures through sharp storytelling and performances.
Author's summary: This limited series reexamines the dramatic story of President Garfield and his assassin with engaging performances and a gripping adaptation of a historical biography.