‘Death by Lightning’ Stars Reveal True Story of a U.S. President’s Fan-Turned-Assassin
The Netflix limited series Death by Lightning explores the dramatic real-life events surrounding James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, and Charles Guiteau, a delusional admirer who assassinated him. The four-episode series stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Guiteau.
The Story Behind the Series
James Garfield, originally an Ohio Congressman, reluctantly assumed the presidency. Charles Guiteau, a political hopeful convinced he was instrumental in Garfield’s rise, developed severe delusions of grandeur. His deteriorating mental state eventually led him to shoot President Garfield.
Although the gunshot wound did not kill Garfield immediately, it caused a fatal infection that ended his presidency after just six months. His wife, Lucretia Garfield, portrayed by Betty Gilpin, was left a widow. Guiteau was sentenced to death by hanging.
Actor Insights and Performances
During an interview with Collider, Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen shared their reflections on their characters and the story's impact. Shannon also discussed his longstanding friendship with co-star Shea Whigham, who plays Roscoe Conkling in the series.
- They explored Guiteau’s unsettling delusions and noted how similar mental struggles persist in people today.
- Both actors explained their choices in embodying these historic figures authentically.
- Shannon expressed how frightening the reality is that Garfield might have survived if not for infection.
- They described filming the intense gallows scene where Guiteau is executed.
- The emotional exchange between Guiteau and Lucretia Garfield was highlighted as particularly memorable.
“He thought he was a hero.”
This quote encapsulates Guiteau's distorted self-image and his tragic role in American history.
Summary
Death by Lightning reveals a haunting chapter in U.S. history, showing how a fan’s dangerous delusions changed the fate of a president and the course of a nation.
Author's summary: The series depicts the tragic true story of President Garfield’s assassination by a deluded admirer, highlighting enduring themes of mental illness and political ambition.