‘Most horrific death you could imagine’: the truth behind Netflix’s Death By Lightning

The release of Netflix's 'Death By Lightning' on November 10, 2025, brings renewed attention to the life and death of James Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, who was assassinated in a train station. His great-great-great grandson, James Garfield III, noted that while the family was aware of the shooting, they seldom spoke of it. The drama is based on Candice Millard's book 'Destiny of the Republic,' which has played a crucial role in reviving interest in Garfield's unfinished life and tragic demise. By dramatizing this often-forgotten story, the series not only honors Garfield's progressive political career but also invites viewers to reflect on the impact of his assassination on American history. The portrayal of Garfield's death as 'the most horrific death you could imagine' underscores the brutality of the event and its significance in shaping the nation's narrative.