“Industry,” the HBO series acclaimed for its raw portrayal of the finance world, has garnered attention for its unique storytelling approach, where actors are kept in the dark about plot developments until scripts are released. This allows the show’s cast to experience dramatic twists as genuine surprises, reflecting the intense unpredictability of their characters’ lives.
In the latest episode, “Dear Henry,” Eric Tao, portrayed by Ken Leung, finds himself facing devastating consequences just as momentum builds for his fund, SternTao, to take on banking app Tender. His character’s unexpected exit from the finance scene leaves his co-star Myha’la, who plays Harper Stern, grappling with disappointment, having dedicated considerable effort into the fund’s success. “When I read episode six, I was like ‘damn, they killed my bro,’” exclaimed Myha’la, highlighting the emotional weight of Eric’s departure.
The chemistry between Leung and Myha’la has developed over four seasons, and their collaboration has been pivotal to bringing authenticity to Eric and Harper’s tumultuous partnership. Reflecting on their journey together, they discussed how early on, they sensed a special connection as scene partners. Myha’la recalled meeting Leung during their audition period and feeling the gravitational pull of his experience. “Ken is the grown-up… Pay attention to him,” she noted.
As the show’s narrative continues to explore the harsh realities of the financial world, both actors acknowledge the challenges imposed by the industry that directly affect their characters. Leung remarked on the complexity of Eric’s new reality, suggesting that his unpredictable walk into an uncertain future could lead to personal growth. He noted, “He’s also walking with purpose… the show doesn’t tell us where he’s going or what he’s feeling.”
Both stars anticipate how their characters will evolve in response to these dramatic changes, pondering whether Eric might eventually return to finance like other characters have done in previous seasons. The depth of their characters’ emotional struggles resonates strongly in scenes, particularly one where Harper reveals her mother’s passing to Eric—a moment described by Myha’la as crucial for depicting vulnerability.
As they reflect on the blend of personal and professional challenges that define “Industry,” the pair emphasizes the importance of connection, collaboration, and the unpredictability that keeps the show’s narrative dynamic. As each episode unfolds, the audience is left intrigued, not only by the characters’ financial ambitions but also by their complex emotional landscapes.
New episodes of “Industry” are available to stream every Sunday on HBO Max, promising viewers more unexpected developments in a world where ambition meets reality.