Can't blame the captain at all for landing in a TS. I'd rather get the plane on the ground than circle waiting for the storm to blow over watching the tanks run dry - then to be given two go-arounds on each approach at the last minute - nothing better for 'scaring passengers' than running out of fuel and having to land an airliner in a field! Also, you try telling an ATC who barely speaks English in, say, the Far East that you'd really rather not land because there are a few sparks around.
Landing in a TS is always hairy, but you do get used to it with experience and if you make a PA that informs and keeps the Pax relaxed then it really shouldn't be a big deal.