The BBC's critically acclaimed and notoriously intense banking drama, Industry, is officially set to make its high-stakes return to screens for a fourth season this month. Fans can brace themselves for more cut-throat deals and personal turmoil at the fictional Pierpoint & Co bank.
From Cult Hit to Must-Watch Drama
First launching on BBC Two and HBO in 2020, the series has steadily built a devoted following over its three existing seasons. Created by former investment bankers Konrad Kay and Mickey Down, the show tracks a group of ambitious graduates navigating the brutal, high-pressure world of London finance. Often compared to the likes of Skins and Succession, its blend of office politics, wild hedonism, and raw personal struggle has earned it a unique place in television.
The new, fourth season will premiere on HBO and HBO Max on January 11, before arriving on BBC iPlayer later in the same month. This announcement provides the perfect opportunity for newcomers to catch up and for existing fans to reacquaint themselves with the drama, with all 24 existing episodes (eight per season) available for a binge-watch.
Inside the Pressure Cooker of Pierpoint & Co
The narrative plunges viewers into the pre-Covid environment of Pierpoint, an elite investment bank. The core ensemble is led by Harper Stern (Myha'la), a fiercely intelligent but deeply complex graduate determined to reach the top by any means necessary. Alongside her is Yasmin Kara Hanani (Marisa Abela), who portrays a 'nepo baby' acutely aware of her privilege, yet hiding significant personal turmoil beneath the surface.
The cast is rounded out by characters like Robert Spearing (Harry Lawty), a graduate from a working-class background desperate to reinvent himself, and Eric Tao (Ken Leung), Harper's volatile mentor whose decision to guide her promises life-altering consequences. The show doesn't shy away from the darker sides of this world, weaving in potent themes of sexism, abuse, and discrimination amidst the financial wins and lavish parties.
Critical Acclaim and What's Next
The series has garnered significant praise from critics. Following its third season last year, The Guardian crowned it "TV's wildest drama", while The Independent described it as "millennial Mad Men with plenty of swagger" and a "thrillingly fresh" entry. This acclaim solidified the show's renewal, promising more of the captivating performances and edge-of-your-seat tension that define it.
With its return imminent, audiences can expect the relentless pace, brutal honesty, and intricate character studies that have made Industry a standout drama. The journey back to the trading floor begins on January 11.
