Netflix sets a November premiere date for Death by Lightning, a limited series starring Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen about the stranger-than-fiction story of President James Garfield and his assassin.
Netflix has revealed that its upcoming limited series Death by Lightning will premiere on November 6, 2025, bringing to life one of the most extraordinary and tragic chapters in American history.
The four-episode drama tells the gripping, stranger-than-fiction story of James Garfield, the reluctant 20th president of the United States, and Charles Guiteau, the obsessive admirer who would ultimately assassinate him. The series takes its name from Garfield’s haunting reflection: “Assassination can no more be guarded against than death by lightning; it is best not to worry about either.”
Anchoring the series are a powerhouse cast of acclaimed performers. Michael Shannon steps into the role of President James Garfield, while Matthew Macfadyen portrays Charles Guiteau. They are joined by Nick Offerman as Chester Arthur, Bradley Whitford as James Blaine, Shea Whigham as Roscoe Conkling, and Betty Gilpin as Crete Garfield.
The limited series also features a strong lineup of guest stars, including Alistair Petrie as John Sherman, Archie Fisher as Joe Brown, Barry Shabaka Henley as Senator Blanche Bruce, Ben Miles as George Scoville, Kyle Soller as Robert Todd Lincoln, Laura Marcus as Mollie Garfield, Paula Malcomson as Franny Scoville, Shaun Parkes as Dr. Charles Purvis, Tuppence Middleton as Kate Chase Sprague, Vondie Curtis Hall as Frederick Douglass, and Željko Ivanek as Dr. Doctor Bliss.
Behind the scenes, the creative team is equally stacked. Death by Lightning is created, written, and executive produced by Mike Makowsky (Bad Education). The series is executive produced by Game of Thrones and 3 Body Problem duo David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, alongside Bernie Caulfield. Matt Ross (Captain Fantastic, Gaslit) serves as director and executive producer.
With its blend of political drama, historical intrigue, and shocking personal obsession, Death by Lightning promises to be one of Netflix’s most talked-about dramas of the fall.
