Death by Lightning release date confirmed: Cast, plot and all about Netflix series

Death by Lightning will narrate the events that led to James A. Garfield’s assassination

Published on: Aug 21, 2025, 23:13:07 IST

By HT US Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Death by Lightning is all set for its Netflix premiere. Fans are hyped about this miniseries, particularly because it has been produced by the creators of Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss. The streaming giant announced the release date via social media.

Death by Lightning drops this November. (X/@Netflix)

The miniseries Death by Lightning, based on Candice Millard’s 2011 nonfiction book, Destiny of the Republic, will drop on Netflix on November 6 this year. Created by Mike Makowsky, the four-episode historical drama will explore the assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th US President.

The cast of Death by Lightning

According to IMDB, while Michael Shannon plays the protagonist James A. Garfield, Matthew Macfadyen has been cast as Charles J. Guiteau, the man who assassinated Garfield at Long Branch on September 19, 1881.

Also read: Is Netflix's Hostage inspired by true events? Here's what we know about Surrane Jones' limited series

On the other hand, Nick Offerman will be seen as Chester A. Arthur. Betty Gilpin has the role of Lucretia Garfield, the wife of President Garfield.

And while Bradley Whitford has been cast as James Blaine, Shea Whigham plays the role of Roscoe Conkling.

The book Death by Lightning is based on

Following its release in 2011, Candice Millard’s Destiny of the Republic received critical acclaim. The Washington Post praised its “fresh narrative” centered around the “most dramatic days in US presidential history”. Among other accolades, Destiny of the Republic received the prestigious Edgar Award and the PEN Center USA award.

Netflix announced last year that it planned to adapt the book into a miniseries, starring Michael Shannon as President James A. Garfield.

FAQs:

When will Death by Lightning premiere on Netflix?

Death by Lightning will premiere on Netflix on November 6 this year.

How is Death by Lightning related to Game of Thrones?

The creators of Game of Thrones – David Benioff and D.B. Weiss – have produced Death by Lightning.

What book is Death by Lightning based on?

Death by Lightning is based on Candice Millard’s 2011 nonfiction book.

What is the plot of Death by Lightning?

Death by Lightning explores the assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th US President.

Who plays the role of President James A. Garfield in Netflix’s Death by Lightning?

Michael Shannon plays President James A. Garfield in Netflix’s Death by Lightning.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT US Desk
The Hindustan Times US Desk brings you the latest news and developments from across the United States. The team covers everything from breaking news and politics to sports, business, entertainment and stories that are trending across the country. Our coverage includes the White House, Congress, US elections, immigration and visa updates, H-1B, green cards, Social Security, education, jobs, layoffs, the economy, technology and major policy changes. We also closely follow stories that matter to Indian and South Asian communities in the US. The desk covers major US sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, along with player news, injuries, schedules, results and major events. Entertainment coverage includes Hollywood, celebrities, television, streaming, music and pop culture. We also report on breaking developments, major incidents, weather, public safety, court cases and other stories making headlines across the country. When a major policy or news development affects people's everyday lives, the team works to explain what happened, what it means and what readers need to know. Alongside breaking news, the US Desk produces explainers and practical stories on topics such as immigration, Social Security, taxes, education, employment and government programmes. The team also works on science, tech, business and AI stories analyzing the impact they may have on people. The team follows developments throughout the day, keeping an eye on official announcements, public records, reliable news sources and what people are talking about across the US.Read More

Netflix

Stay connected with all the glitz and glam from the world of entertainment, right from Hollywood gossip to Bollywood chit chat. Also don't miss out on music buzz, anime scoops and OTT action.