Death by Lightning Cast Delivers Stunning Performances in Netflix Historical Drama

The new Netflix limited series Death by Lightning has captivated audiences and critics. The show features an incredible cast led by Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen. All four episodes began streaming on November 6, 2025.

This historical drama explores President James Garfield’s assassination. The series brings a pivotal moment in American history to life. Critics are praising the powerful performances across the entire ensemble.

Michael Shannon Embodies President James Garfield

Michael Shannon delivers a remarkable performance as President Garfield. He captures the leader’s intelligence and moral conviction. Shannon shows Garfield’s belief in public service over personal power.

The actor found the role deeply meaningful. He told Netflix that playing a real president was a unique opportunity. Shannon appreciated learning history through character immersion.

Garfield became president fifteen years after the Civil War. He faced the challenge of leading a divided nation. Shannon’s nuanced portrayal reveals a man shaped by national trauma.

Matthew Macfadyen’s Complex Portrayal of Charles Guiteau

Matthew Macfadyen transforms assassin Charles Guiteau into a complex figure. His performance balances delusion with unexpected sympathy. Macfadyen maintains enough charm to complicate viewer reactions.

Creator Mike Makowsky deliberately chose this approach. He explained that pure contempt for Guiteau wouldn’t serve the story. Macfadyen’s performance prevents simple villain categorization.

The actor found Guiteau fascinating yet frustrating. He told Netflix the character was strangely sympathetic. This emotional tension makes the assassination’s inevitability more powerful.

Supporting Cast Elevates the Historical Drama

The exceptional supporting cast brings 1880s Washington to life. Betty Gilpin portrays First Lady Lucretia Garfield with intelligence and warmth. She studied Garfield’s actual letters to understand their relationship.

Nick Offerman brings depth to Vice President Chester Arthur. Bradley Whitford returns to political drama as Senator James Blaine. Shea Whigham dominates as powerbroker Roscoe Conkling.

Each actor contributes to the rich historical tapestry. Their performances create a believable political world. The ensemble work has received widespread critical praise.

Critical Acclaim and Viewer Reception

Death by Lightning earned outstanding reviews since its November 6 release. Rotten Tomatoes shows a 90% fresh rating. Metacritic scored the series at 81, indicating universal acclaim.

The Guardian praised the drama’s balance between Garfield’s tribute and Guiteau’s tragedy. USA Today called it unmissable historical television. Decider highlighted the spot-on performances across the cast.

Viewers appreciate the series’ energy and dark humor. The four episodes maintain strong pacing despite serious subject matter. The final episode grows appropriately somber as Garfield fights for survival.

Death by Lightning stands as a masterpiece of historical storytelling. The incredible cast performances make this limited series essential viewing. This Netflix drama brings a crucial American moment to vivid life.

Thought you’d like to know

Where can I watch Death by Lightning?

All four episodes stream exclusively on Netflix. The complete series launched on November 6, 2025. You can binge the entire historical drama with a Netflix subscription.

How many episodes are in the series?

Death by Lightning consists of four hour-long episodes. The limited series tells a complete story without cliffhangers. All episodes dropped simultaneously for binge-watching.

Who plays President Garfield in the series?

Michael Shannon portrays President James Garfield. His performance has received widespread critical acclaim. Shannon captures Garfield’s intelligence and moral complexity beautifully.

Is Death by Lightning based on a true story?

Yes, the series adapts Candace Millard’s book Destiny of the Republic. It depicts the real-life assassination of President James Garfield. The story remains historically accurate while adding dramatic depth.

Will there be a second season?

Death by Lightning is a complete limited series. The story concludes with the fourth episode. Netflix has not announced any plans for continuation.

What rating does the series have?

The show carries a TV-MA rating for language and violence. This reflects the historical drama’s intense subject matter. Viewer discretion is advised for younger audiences.

Trusted Sources

Netflix, Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, The Guardian, USA Today, Associated Press