Review: 'Death by Lightning' Offers a Surprising Story About an Assassinated President Gone Too Soon
Netflix's four-part miniseries, based on Candice Millard's nonfiction book, reveals the lesser-known story of President James A. Garfield. Premiering Thursday on Netflix, Death By Lightning introduces itself as "a story about two men the world forgot." While most in 2025 may not recognize Charles Guiteau, many will recall Garfield, one of only four American presidents to be assassinated.
Although other presidents and assassins might be better remembered—does the name John Tyler ring a bell?—this docudrama chooses a narrative that surprises viewers and includes a built-in murder mystery.
The Contemporary Relevance of Garfield's Story
The series seems deliberately crafted for today’s audience, touching on issues like civil rights, income inequality, cronyism, and corruption. The Garfield story is undeniably dramatic—a national tragedy that extends beyond his family alone.
"For the sense one gets from Death by Lightning and from the historical record it fairly represents, is that Garfield, killed after only 200 days in office, might have made a very good chief executive."
The tragedy of his death leaves room to wonder what Garfield could have achieved had he lived longer.
Summary
Death By Lightning uncovers the dramatic, overlooked story of President Garfield's assassination, highlighting themes that resonate deeply in modern society.
Author's summary: This miniseries brings to light the dramatic assassination of President Garfield, connecting his story to enduring issues of injustice and inequality in America.