The True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Death by Lightning’ and the Assassination of James A. Garfield

Charles Guiteau’s bullet did not directly kill the 20th president of the United States. Instead, it was a combination of ignorance, pride, and the medical interventions used to save him that ultimately caused his death.

President James A. Garfield was less than four months into his term when he was shot by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled supporter. More than 120 years later, the consequences of this assassination still influence politics and medicine.

Netflix Series ‘Death By Lightning’ Overview

The new Netflix limited series Death By Lightning, which premiered on November 6, 2025, delves into the tragedy of Garfield’s death and its significance in U.S. history. The four-part series stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau.

The show explores the events leading up to the shooting and the misguided medical efforts to save the president’s life.

Charles Guiteau’s Motive and Background

Charles Julius Guiteau was born in Freeport, Illinois, in 1841. His childhood was troubled: his mother, Jane, suffered from psychosis and passed away when he was about seven, leaving him to be raised by his abusive father, Luther.

Medical Response to Garfield’s Shooting

Doctors undertook several haphazard attempts to treat Garfield after he was shot, but their lack of knowledge and prideful mistakes contributed significantly to his death.

"Charles Guiteau’s bullet didn’t kill the 20th president—it was ignorance, pride, and the tools meant to save his life."

"Garfield was less than four months into his presidential term when tragedy struck in the form of an assassin’s bullet."

Impact and Legacy

The tragic assassination and subsequent medical failure marked a pivotal moment that still resonates in political and medical discussions today.

Author’s Summary: The assassination of President Garfield and the flawed medical response reveal a pivotal historical tragedy where human error and ignorance proved as fatal as the assassin’s bullet itself.

Biography — 2025-11-07