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Netflix Miniseries Explores Garfield's Legacy and Assassination

11/13/2025

Summary

Garfield's Assassination Explored

The Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning depicts the life and assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th U.S. president.
It is based on Candice Millard's book and stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau.
Betty Gilpin plays Lucretia Garfield and Vondie Curtis-Hall portrays Frederick Douglass, highlighting the era's political dynamics.
The narrative explores Garfield's legacy and the impact of his assassination on politics.

Summary

Controversy Over Accuracy

Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning premiered on November 6, 2025, drawing controversy over its historical accuracy.
Critics cite an establishing shot of a diverse group in 1880 Chicago, claiming it is unlikely given the city's demographics.
YouTuber Craig Richard Skistimas estimated the odds at roughly 1 in 2.4 million.
Mike Makowsky, the creator, says the series stays true to Garfield's story, while the scene prompts debate on tokenism versus representation.

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Garfield's Assassination Explored

The Netflix miniseries Death by Lightning depicts the life and assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th U.S. president.
It is based on Candice Millard's book and stars Michael Shannon as Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau.
Betty Gilpin plays Lucretia Garfield and Vondie Curtis-Hall portrays Frederick Douglass, highlighting the era's political dynamics.
The narrative explores Garfield's legacy and the impact of his assassination on politics.

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