Copyright mirror
Death By Lightning is almost upon us, with a stellar cast bringing this extraordinary true story to the screen. Set during the late 19th Century, Death By Lightning follows two interconnected storylines, the first centring on James Garfield (portrayed by Michael Shannon), the man who unexpectedly became President of the United States. The second narrative tracks Garfield's most devoted follower turned assassin Charles Guiteau ( Matthew Macfadyen ) as he battles to find his place in society. Death By Lightning's creator Mike Makowsky has branded the real-life events as both "wild and tragic" making this four-part limited series essential viewing. Here's a guide to the stars of Death By Lightning before the Netflix drama drops this week. Taking on the role of America's murdered 20th President James Garfield is actor Michael Shannon who launched his film career in the 1993 romantic comedy Groundhog Day alongside Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. He's also known for his performances in 99 Homes, The Shape of Water, Revolutionary Road and The Flash. Actor Matthew Macfadyen is well-versed in acclaimed television having played Tom Wambsgans throughout all four series of the legendary HBO drama Succession. Prior to this, Macfadyen, who takes on Garfield's killer Charles, gained recognition playing Mr Darcy opposite Keira Knightley in the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice. James Garfield's spouse and America's First Lady during this era Crete Garfield is brought to life by actress Betty Gilpin. She is famous for portraying Debbie "Liberty Belle" Eagan in Netflix's GLOW, Lina Parish in Three Women and Dr Carrie Roman in Nurse Jackie. Actor and comedian Nick Offerman is most closely linked with Ron Swanson in the legendary NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation. In recent years, Offerman has appeared in The Last of Us , Devs, Pam and Tommy, The Umbrella Academy and Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning. He assumes the part of Chester Arthur in Death By Lightning, Garfield's Vice President and successor after his murder. Leading Republican Senator Roscoe Conkling is portrayed by Boardwalk Empire star Shea Whigham who brought Elias "Eli" Thompson to life across all five seasons. He's also recognisable from his roles in the first series of True Detective, Fargo, Silver Linings Playbook, Joker and The Wolf of Wall Street. Republican politician and Garfield ally John Sherman is depicted by actor Alistair Petrie. Netflix viewers will recall him as Michael Groff in the popular comedy-drama Sex Education. Several of his other notable roles include appearances in Magpie, Funny Women, Andor and The Night Manager as Sandy Langbourne. Actor Bradley Whitford featured as White House deputy chief of staff Josh Lyman in the acclaimed series The West Wing. Audiences might also know him from The Handmaid's Tale, Get Out, Perfect Harmony and The Diplomat. Whitford plays James Blaine, Garfield's Secretary of State in Death By Lightning. Death By Lightning is set to premiere on Netflix on Thursday, 6th November.
