Breaking the Wall: How a Banker‑Actor Rewrote His Own Story

Ken Leung’s role as Eric in HBO’s “Industry” shows a man stepping into a world that feels foreign. The show follows a group of young outsiders—different races, backgrounds and ambitions—trying to survive in London’s elite finance scene. Leung explains that he had to claim ownership of the character because the setting was something he didn’t know. The writers, Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, came from finance themselves. That insider knowledge makes the story feel real while still being relatable to anyone who has ever felt out of place. In season one, the trading floor’s red carpet struck Leung. For him, red is lucky and it reminds him of his family home, car and house—all red. It gave him a sense that “home” could exist in this harsh environment.He also credits his on‑screen chemistry with Myha’la, who plays Harper. Their partnership feels like a long‑time friendship, which helped build the mentor‑mentee dynamic that grows toxic over three seasons. By season four, Eric is a retired banker who returns to London only because Harper needs him. Now the power balance has shifted. Harper is leading a new venture, SternTao, and Eric’s role is to support her. Leung notes that he “needs her more than she needs me. ” The change also forces Eric to reconnect with his teenage daughter, adding emotional depth. A scene where he calls her after a conversation with Harper illustrates this journey toward redemption. The climax comes when Eric hands over the company entirely to Harper. This act feels like an emotional goodbye, especially after six years of close collaboration with Myha’la. The scene shows how a character can evolve from a mentor to a father figure, and ultimately choose the right path.