Death By Lightning is a new unbelievable true story drama from the creators of Game of Thrones.
Hayley Anderson TV Reporter
07:15, 30 Oct 2025
Netflix’s latest historical drama Death By Lightning is set to make a striking debut, leaving subscribers eager to know more about the series.
The limited series, executive produced by Game of Thrones’ David Benioff and DB Weiss, delves into the life and death of James Garfield, the 20th US President.
Creator Mike Makowsky has spent six years crafting this “wild” and “tragic” tale for Netflix.
With its premiere just days away, here’s what you can expect from Death By Lightning.
Death By Lightning release date
The wait is nearly over, with Death By Lighting set to launch on Thursday, November 6, on Netflix.
It’s confirmed that the show will be a limited series of four episodes, so don’t anticipate a second series.
Actress Betty Gilpin stars as Crete Garfield in Death By Lightning.(Image: NETFLIX)
Inside Death By Lightning’s real-life plot
Set in the late 19th Century, Death By Lightning explores the extraordinary life and death of America’s 20th President, James Garfield.
The series follows his unexpected rise to presidency and the story of Charles Guiteau, who becomes both his greatest admirer and future assassin.
This four-part Netflix drama is based on Candice Millard’s 2011 book, Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Medicine, Madness and the Murder of a President.
Speaking to Tudum, Makowsky said: “The theme of corruption in politics and our bureaucracy feels particularly evergreen these days.
“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.
The Game of Thrones creators’ Netflix drama is released very soon(Image: NETFLIX)
“In 1881, it feels like America is sort of standing at a crossroads between the past and what the future of this country is going to look like, and it’s up to [people like Garfield] to really define how America, 100 years after its inception, is going to look and what kind of society they’re going to be.”
Death By Lightning cast
If the astonishing true story behind it isn’t enough to draw you in, Death By Lightning boasts an impressive ensemble cast.
Taking on the role of James Garfield is Michael Shannon, known for his performances in Nocturnal Animals and George and Tammy.
Playing opposite him as assassin Charles Guiteau is Matthew Macfadyen, best recognised for his portrayal of Tom Wambsgans in HBO’s Succession and his iconic turn as Mr Darcy opposite Keira Knightley in the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.
The series also features a stellar supporting cast, including Betty Gilpin from American Primeval, The Last Of Us star Nick Offerman, The Handmaid’s Tale’s Bradley Whitford and Boardwalk Empire actor Shea Whigham.
Death By Lightning launches on Thursday, 6 November, on Netflix.
