Death by Lightning review – absolutely nobody plays losers like Matthew Macfadyen
The Succession star delivers an exceptional performance in this gripping historical miniseries. His portrayal of Charles Guiteau, the man who assassinated the US president in 1881, elevates his craft to new heights.
Charles Guiteau's infamous claim
“My name will be known one day all across this country!”
Guiteau, the anti-hero of the four-part series Death by Lightning, famously declared this, yet until now remained largely forgotten. His attempt to secure a place in history by killing President James Garfield succeeded only in turning both into obscure pub quiz trivia, as Garfield had served just four months in office.
Focus on the forgotten figure
The series honors Garfield’s quiet legacy but centers on Guiteau’s turbulent character. If the show gains acclaim, Guiteau might finally receive the notoriety he sought, thanks to Macfadyen’s portrayal of him as a pitiable and unhinged figure.
- Wild-eyed and scruffy beard
- Constantly adjusting his worn clothes
- Delusional fantasist and compulsive liar
- Persistent self-promoter with no real skills or vocation
Matthew Macfadyen captures this flawed character with unmatched skill, making Guiteau unforgettable on screen.
Author’s summary: Matthew Macfadyen’s masterful portrayal in Death by Lightning brings to life the tragic, deluded figure of Charles Guiteau and reinvents a forgotten historical drama.