Actors Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen chat with USA TODAY about their roles in the new historical drama "Death by Lightning" on Netflix.

Matthew Macfadyen is an English actor with an impeccable range. The majority of viewers recognize him as the gloomy Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice, released in 2005.

Macfadyen's most recent work in the HBO series 'Succession' (2018–2023) marked a significant turning point in his career. His character, Tom Wambsgans, is a corporate climber navigating the treacherous waters of a media empire. This role has earned him critical acclaim and two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor.

When Matthew Macfadyen dropped by to chat about his upcoming work on Late Night with Seth Meyers, he was asked about these new audiobooks and taking on the iconic villain role that Ralph Fiennes played in the movies. In response, the Pride and Prejudice actor explained how thrilled he was to do the part, saying:

EXCLUSIVE: The Miniature Wife has found new partners around the world. The high-concept Matthew Macfadyen and Elizabeth Banks show is for Peacock in the U.S. It had a glitzy screening for the international set at the MIPCOM market in Cannes last month.

Michael Shannon and Matthew Macfadyen lead Death by Lightning, Netflix’s gripping retelling of President James Garfield’s shocking true story.

Death by Lightning hit Netflix on November 6, 2025, and instantly grabbed eyeballs. The four-part historical drama stars Michael Shannon as President James A. Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as his assassin,