“He had a terrible upbringing. He was directionless. He wasn’t naturally good at the things he put his hand to,” said Matthew Macfadyen, reflecting on his role as Charles J. Guiteau in the Netflix miniseries ‘Death by Lightning’. The show, which premiered on November 6, 2025, has quickly gained attention for its deep dive into the life of Guiteau and the assassination of President James A. Garfield.
‘Death by Lightning’ is based on Candice Millard’s book ‘Destiny of the Republic’, and it consists of four episodes that explore the historical context surrounding Garfield’s presidency and the events leading to his assassination in 1881. The series highlights Garfield’s anti-corruption and civil rights advocacy, providing a backdrop to Guiteau’s misguided belief that he played a significant role in Garfield’s election.
Matthew Macfadyen, who is also known for his role as Tom Wambsgans on HBO’s ‘Succession’, has received praise for his portrayal of Guiteau, a man who was ultimately convicted of murder in January 1882 and executed later that year. Critics and viewers alike have lauded the series, with one viewer commenting, “Binged it in one sitting. Shannon and Macfadyen are both mesmerising, and Offerman is pretty hilarious as Chester Arthur.”
The miniseries not only focuses on Guiteau’s troubled life but also sheds light on Garfield’s legacy and the political climate of the time. Michael Shannon, who plays Garfield, expressed his enthusiasm for the character, stating, “There’s so much about Garfield that excites me,” and added, “He really embodies everything I wish and hope a president would be.” This sentiment resonates throughout the series, as it juxtaposes Garfield’s ideals against Guiteau’s chaotic existence.
As the series continues to attract viewers, it is clear that Macfadyen’s performance has struck a chord, bringing depth to a character often viewed solely as a villain in history. The acclaim for ‘Death by Lightning’ suggests a growing interest in historical narratives that explore the complexities of human behavior and motivation.
With its compelling storytelling and strong performances, ‘Death by Lightning’ is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences, inviting them to reflect on the intricacies of history and the individuals who shape it.