David Benioff and D.B. Weiss are back, this time diving into an ambitious historical series that takes a hard look at American political history for Netflix. Partnering with Mike Makowsky, the mastermind behind Bad Education, Benioff and Weiss are adapting Candice Millard’s 2011 novel, Destiny of the Republic, into a new Netflix drama titled Death by Lightning. For anyone still recovering from the sprawling complexity of Game of Thrones, brace yourself: this one digs into the stranger-than-fiction saga of President James Garfield and his tragic fate at the hands of his biggest fan.
Makowsky, alongside director Matt Ross (Captain Fantastic), and producer Bernie Caulfield (Game of Thrones, 3 Body Problem), is bringing to life a story that’s both bizarre and deeply resonant with our present day. “It’s been the thrill of a lifetime seeing this crack team come together to bring James Garfield and his cohort back from the annals of long-forgotten history,” Makowsky said in an interview with Tudum. “Six years into working on this project, it’s a story I still can’t believe is true—in all its wild, tragic glory—and it somehow feels even more relevant to our world today than ever before. I can’t wait for us to be able to finally share it.” With production recently wrapped in Hungary, here’s everything you need to know.
What is Death by Lightning About?
The story revolves around James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States—a man almost reluctant to assume power—and Charles Guiteau, a man whose obsession with Garfield would ultimately drive him to murder. This adaptation leans into the dark absurdity and emotional depth of the historical events that led to Garfield’s assassination. Death by Lightning isn’t just a recount of political history; it’s an exploration of obsession, ambition, and the eccentricities of human nature that shaped an unforgettable chapter in American history. As noted by Makowsky, it’s a story that feels deeply relevant to our world today.
Who’s Leading the Cast?
Netflix’s Death by Lightning boasts a highly anticipated, star-studded ensemble, perfectly equipped to handle the mix of drama, tragedy, and satire at the core of Garfield’s story.
- Michael Shannon (George & Tammy, Nocturnal Animals) plays President James Garfield, channeling the reluctant leader pulled into a storm far bigger than himself.
- Matthew Macfadyen (Succession, Stonehouse) takes on the role of Charles Guiteau, the unhinged admirer whose misguided devotion ends in tragedy.
- Betty Gilpin (GLOW, Mrs. Davis) stars as First Lady Crete Garfield, bringing a nuanced depth to Garfield’s often overshadowed partner.
- Nick Offerman (The Last of Us, Parks and Recreation) portrays Vice President Chester Arthur, who finds himself in an unexpected position of power following Garfield’s demise.
- Bradley Whitford (The Handmaid’s Tale, The West Wing) plays Secretary of State James Blaine, Garfield’s trusted political ally.
- Shea Whigham (Joker, Take Shelter) as Senator Roscoe Conkling adds tension to the power dynamics swirling around Garfield’s administration.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring talents like Paula Malcomson as Franny Scoville, Željko Ivanek as Dr. Bliss, Vondie Curtis-Hall as Frederick Douglass, and Kyle Soller as Robert Todd Lincoln—bringing this historical tragedy to life with dynamic performances.
Behind the Scenes
Death by Lightning brings together the creative team of David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, once again showing their appetite for sweeping narratives that dig into human ambition, hubris, and folly, much like their previous success with Game of Thrones. Joining them are Mike Makowsky and Matt Ross, whose collaborative vision will ensure the series combines historical accuracy with captivating storytelling. Matt Ross is slated to direct all episodes, ensuring a cohesive vision throughout the series.
The series comes hot on the heels of Benioff and Weiss’ other Netflix venture, 3 Body Problem, an adaptation of Liu Cixin’s acclaimed sci-fi novel. 3 Body Problem, which premiered in March, showed that the pair could transition from fantasy to science fiction without missing a beat. With Death by Lightning, they’re stepping into yet another genre: historical drama. And if history is any indicator, it’s going to be a journey well worth taking.
Production Updates and What’s Next
Production has just wrapped up in Hungary, and anticipation is already building for a potential 2025 release. The series promises a uniquely cinematic portrayal of one of America’s most peculiar political tragedies—one that involves obsession, a nation still finding its identity, and the individuals who made (and broke) history. With Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen at the helm of this tragic tale, the portrayal of Garfield and Guiteau is expected to strike a chord with audiences, blending historical intrigue with emotional complexity.
Death by Lightning doesn’t just intend to recount history; it aims to remind viewers of the inherent unpredictability and vulnerability of leaders, showing us just how fragile the idea of power really is. Garfield’s short-lived presidency and the events that followed were filled with bitter irony, making it a perfect canvas for Benioff and Weiss’ narrative style—equal parts sweeping drama and personal tragedy.
This series is poised to bring an often-overlooked chapter of American history into sharp focus, and with Benioff, Weiss, and Makowsky at the creative helm, it’s almost certain to offer a perspective that’s at once educational and profoundly moving. For fans of historical drama, political intrigue, or simply great storytelling, this is a series to keep an eye on.
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