Netflix’s “Death by Lightning” Reopens the Tragic Assassination of President James A. Garfield
The upcoming Netflix mini-series Death by Lightning revisits the dramatic and little-remembered story of President James A. Garfield, whose push for civil service reform ended in tragedy. The story highlights how politics, pride, and medical malpractice converged to shape a national crisis.
A President’s Rise
Portrayed by Michael Shannon, Garfield’s life and presidency are traced from his unexpected nomination as the Republican candidate to his narrow victory in the 1880 election. His reform-minded agenda quickly challenged the entrenched patronage system that dominated government hiring.
The Fatal Attack
In July 1881, only months into his first term, Garfield was shot by Charles J. Guiteau, played by Matthew Macfadyen. Guiteau, a political supporter and unstable office-seeker, believed he deserved a government position as a reward for his loyalty.
When Garfield’s administration refused his requests, Guiteau turned violent, intending to elevate Vice President Chester A. Arthur—depicted by Nick Offerman—into the presidency. Garfield’s injuries and subsequent mistreatment by doctors contributed to his death, marking one of the nation’s great political tragedies.
“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.
Legacy and Reflection
The series aims to contextualize Garfield’s assassination within the broader struggle for integrity in American politics, illustrating how his death ultimately accelerated reform efforts that reshaped the federal system.
Author’s Summary: The series Death by Lightning revives Garfield’s fight for reform, revealing how his vision and untimely death sparked lasting changes in U.S. governance.