Netflix’s New #1 Series: Death by Lightning
Netflix’s latest chart-topping series, Death by Lightning, tells a gripping true story that viewers can’t stop watching. Following recent hits like Aileen: Queen of the Serial Killers and A House of Dynamite, this new period drama has quickly climbed to the number one spot on the streaming platform.
Based on a True Story
The limited drama series is inspired by real events surrounding James Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, and Charles Guiteau, a man who admired Garfield—and ultimately assassinated him. The four-part story draws from Candice Millard’s 2011 nonfiction book Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President.
“Assassination can be no more guarded against than death by lightning. And it is best not to worry too much about either one.” — James A. Garfield
An All-Star Cast
- Michael Shannon as President James Garfield
- Matthew Macfadyen (Succession, Pride & Prejudice) as Charles Guiteau
- Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation)
- Betty Gilpin (GLOW)
- Bradley Whitford (The Handmaid’s Tale)
- Shea Whigham (Boardwalk Empire)
Premiering November 6, the series has already earned enthusiastic audience reviews and holds an 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Author’s Summary
This compelling period drama merges history and human emotion, transforming President Garfield’s tragic fate into one of Netflix’s most talked-about true stories.