Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ Reopens the Shocking Assassination of President James A. Garfield

Netflix’s “Death by Lightning” Reopens the Assassination of President James A. Garfield

The upcoming Netflix mini-series Death by Lightning explores how politics, pride, and medical malpractice turned a presidential mission for reform into a national tragedy. The show revisits the life and death of the 20th U.S. president, James A. Garfield, portrayed by actor Michael Shannon.

A Unexpected Presidency and Tragic Turn

Garfield’s story begins with his unlikely nomination as the Republican candidate and his narrow victory in the 1880 election. Only months after taking office, in July 1881, he was shot by Charles J. Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen. Guiteau, a hopeful office-seeker, felt entitled to a government job for supporting Garfield’s campaign.

Patronage vs. Reform

At the time, political appointments were often granted through patronage. However, Garfield strongly supported civil service reform and advocated for merit-based hiring, which put him at odds with those seeking personal gain from political loyalty. When his requests were denied, Guiteau decided to assassinate Garfield, believing it would elevate Vice President Chester A. Arthur—portrayed in the series by Nick Offerman—to the presidency.

Thematic Depth and Vision

“The idea of civil service reform and waging a battle to clean up the grift in our government—this is something that Garfield very much stood on the front lines of in his time,”

said Death by Lightning creator Mike Makowsky in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, underlining Garfield’s lasting legacy as a reformer who challenged corruption in the highest office.

Author’s Summary

The series brings Garfield’s forgotten struggle for ethical governance back into focus, revealing how idealism collided with ambition and human flaw in 19th-century America.

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Biography Biography — 2025-11-04

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