Death By Lightning Filming Locations as It Lands on Netflix
Death By Lightning on Netflix is executive produced by Game of Thrones creators David Benioff and DB Weiss. The four-part historical drama narrates the events leading to the assassination of the 20th President of the United States.
Based on Candice Millard’s book Destiny of the Republic, the limited series was released in full on Thursday, November 6, 2025. It chronicles James A. Garfield's unexpected rise to the presidency in 1881 after initially supporting John Sherman’s campaign. The story also portrays Charles Guiteau, Garfield’s future assassin, who begins as his ardent admirer.
Filming Location
Contrary to expectations given its American historical context, Death By Lightning was not filmed in the United States. Production took place in Budapest, Hungary, beginning July 1, 2024, and concluding by October the same year.
"Despite Death By Lightning revolving around a key chapter in America’s history, the Netflix show wasn’t actually filmed in the US."
Notable Cast
- Michael Shannon as James A. Garfield
- Alistair Petrie as John Sherman
- Matthew Macfadyen as Charles Guiteau
"Charles Guiteau quickly becomes [Garfield’s] greatest admirer."
Audience Reception
The limited series has sparked curiosity among viewers about its filming locations as they start watching the show.
Death By Lightning joins other acclaimed Netflix productions crafted by Benioff and Weiss, attracting significant attention due to its historical narrative and notable production team.
Summary: The Netflix series Death By Lightning dramatizes President Garfield’s assassination story, filmed entirely in Budapest despite its deeply American subject matter, reflecting a strategic production choice.