Netflix’s latest historical drama, “Death by Lightning,” has made a formidable debut, surging to the No. 2 spot on the streaming giant’s U.S. top 10 charts just days after its November 6, 2025 release. This new TV show, adapted from Candice Millard’s acclaimed 2011 book “Destiny of the Republic,” dramatizes the tumultuous events surrounding the presidency and assassination of James A. Garfield, culminating in the infamous “Death by Lightning” event for the nation. The series has quickly captured audience and critical attention, earning widespread praise for its compelling narrative, meticulous period detail, and powerhouse performances from its lead actors, proving the “Death by Lightning” story has enduring power.
A Tale of Ambition, Delusion, and a Nation’s Turmoil in “Death by Lightning”
“Death by Lightning” plunges viewers into the late 19th century, a period of significant political upheaval in the United States. The four-part miniseries chronicles the rise of James A. Garfield, the 20th U.S. President, a man of humble origins who ascended to the nation’s highest office through intellect and reformist zeal. His presidency, however, was cut tragically short by Charles J. Guiteau, a delusional office seeker whose obsession with Garfield ultimately led to the president’s assassination, a key part of the “Death by Lightning” narrative. The series expertly weaves together the parallel narratives of Garfield’s brief but impactful tenure and Guiteau’s descent into madness, creating a gripping historical account that resonates with modern audiences eager to understand the “Death by Lightning” context.
The historical context is rich, detailing Garfield’s fight against the entrenched “spoils system” and his advocacy for civil rights, which put him at odds with powerful political factions. Guiteau, meanwhile, believed he was owed a diplomatic post for his perceived role in Garfield’s election, a delusion that fueled his deadly obsession. The series captures the peculiar blend of political intrigue, personal ambition, and stark tragedy that defined this era of American history and led to the shocking “Death by Lightning” outcome. Candice Millard’s source material, “Destiny of the Republic,” itself a celebrated work of narrative history, provides a detailed foundation for the series’ exploration of madness, medicine, and murder, all leading to the inevitable “Death by Lightning.”
Stellar Performances Anchor the Drama of “Death by Lightning”
At the heart of “Death by Lightning” are the commanding performances of Michael Shannon as James A. Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau. Critics have lauded Shannon for his portrayal of Garfield as a composed, profound, and deeply human figure, transforming a largely forgotten president into a relatable character. Macfadyen, drawing praise for his nuanced depiction of Guiteau, has been described as delivering a masterclass in “slimy desperation” and “pitiable crank”. His performance, reminiscent of his acclaimed Matthew Macfadyen role in “Succession,” is cited as a standout, bringing both complexity and an unsettling magneticism to the assassin responsible for Garfield’s “Death by Lightning.”
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, with Betty Gilpin as Lucretia Garfield, Shea Whigham as Roscoe Conkling, Bradley Whitford as James Blaine, and Nick Offerman as Chester A. Arthur. Offerman, in particular, has received mentions for his boisterous yet vulnerable portrayal of Arthur, who becomes president after Garfield’s death. The chemistry and commitment of the entire cast contribute significantly to the show’s authenticity and dramatic weight, making the “Death by Lightning” narrative even more impactful.
Critical Acclaim and Chart Dominance for “Death by Lightning”
“Death by Lightning” has been met with near-universal critical acclaim, a testament to its compelling story and “critical acclaim TV” status. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds a high critical score, with 88% of 42 reviews being positive, earning it a “Certified Fresh” badge. The consensus highlights the series as handsomely mounted and electrified by its lead performances, concisely dramatizing a critical juncture in history. Metacritic also awards the show an 81 out of 100, indicating “universal acclaim” based on 28 critics. Reviewers have praised its “sharp, stylish execution,” its “gripping historical drama with real-life stakes,” and its ability to make a niche historical event feel “eerily prescient,” truly capturing the essence of the “Death by Lightning” event.
Upon its November 6 premiere, “Death by Lightning” quickly ascended Netflix’s streaming charts, securing the No. 2 position in the United States, a true “streaming chart success.” It stands ahead of other trending series like “Nobody Wants This” season 2 and “Squid Game: The Challenge” season 2, though it trails behind the currently dominant stand-up special “Leanne Morgan: Unspeakable Things”. Globally, the series has also shown strong performance, reaching No. 3 on some charts, positioning it as a significant streaming hit and a must-watch TV show for the week. The series’ four-episode structure makes it an ideal binge-watch, contributing to its rapid rise in popularity and highlighting the enduring fascination with the “Death by Lightning” story.
Themes and Modern Relevance in the “Death by Lightning” Narrative
Beyond its historical narrative, “Death by Lightning” offers timely reflections on political corruption, the cult of personality, and the profound impact individuals can have on history, for better or worse. The series draws parallels between the political machinations of the 1880s and the polarized climate of the present day, making its exploration of power, ambition, and public perception feel remarkably relevant to the “Charles J. Guiteau story.” Critics have noted that the show, while a period piece, doesn’t shy away from the darker, more human aspects of its story, presenting a narrative that is both “timely and timeless,” making the “Death by Lightning” subject matter resonate deeply.
A New Standard for Historical Streaming Content: “Death by Lightning”
“Death by Lightning” stands out as a compelling example of high-quality historical drama on streaming platforms. With its stellar cast, masterful direction by Matt Ross, and insightful writing by Mike Makowsky, the series successfully brings a largely forgotten, yet pivotal, moment in American history to vivid life. Executive produced by “Game of Thrones” creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, the show demonstrates a keen understanding of narrative pacing and character development. The series’ immediate success on Netflix, coupled with its overwhelmingly positive critical reception, solidifies its place as one of the standout new releases of the fall season and a significant addition to the platform’s library of engaging TV show offerings. For those looking for intelligent, character-driven storytelling infused with historical gravitas, “Death by Lightning” is an essential watch, particularly for fans of the “James A. Garfield series” and the “Destiny of the Republic adaptation.” The “Michael Shannon acting” is particularly noteworthy in bringing the “Death by Lightning” drama to life.
