Coronation Street Veteran Martin Hancock Joins Industry Cast in Explosive Role
The acclaimed financial drama Industry has welcomed a familiar face from British television, with Coronation Street star Martin Hancock making his debut in the show's fourth series. The actor, best known for playing Spider Nugent on the ITV soap since 1997, appeared in Monday's episode in a role that marks a dramatic departure from his cobbles character.
A Stark Contrast to Weatherfield
Martin Hancock, 57, last appeared on Coronation Street in 2023, where his character Spider Nugent was working undercover as a police officer before tearfully departing Weatherfield to continue his career down south. His transition to Industry sees him taking on the character of Dez Watkins, who becomes embroiled in a chaotic and dangerous night out in London.
The fourth series of the HBO and BBC One drama has brought back established stars including Myha'la, Marisa Abela, Kit Harington, Ken Leung and Sagar Radia, while introducing fresh faces such as Charlie Heaton from Stranger Things, Kiernan Shipka from Sabrina, and Max Minghella from The Handmaid's Tale.
Dez Watkins' Fateful Night Out
In the episode, Dez encounters Rishi Ramdani (played by Sagar Radia) and James Dycker (played by Charlie Heaton) at a pub, where he warns them that a stranger is attempting to spike their drinks and steal their possessions. The three then form a connection, getting intoxicated and taking drugs before returning to Rishi's flat for an afterparty.
As the group continues consuming drugs and alcohol, Dez persistently turns up the volume on the speakers, leading to a noise complaint. Whilst Dez pops out for another alcohol run, police officers arrive following complaints about excessively loud music.
Shocking Consequences Unfold
In a dramatic turn of events, James is discovered apparently lifeless from a drug overdose, whilst Rishi – who had nipped to the loo – is left in a state of panic over the apparent fatality and the police hammering at his door. Terrified he'll be held responsible for James' overdose, Rishi makes a desperate leap from his balcony.
The episode concludes with Rishi lying injured but alive, desperately trying to drag himself away before being apprehended by officers. This marks a significant contrast to Hancock's previous roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Continuing Television Success
Following his exit from Coronation Street, Martin Hancock has maintained a steady presence on British television. In 2025, he took on the role of Samuel Jankowski in the long-running medical drama Casualty, demonstrating his range across different genres and formats.
His casting in Industry represents another significant step in his career, moving from the familiar territory of soap opera to the gritty, fast-paced world of financial drama. The role allows him to explore darker, more complex character dynamics than his previous work on Coronation Street.
New episodes of Industry continue to be available to watch on Mondays on BBC iPlayer, offering viewers the chance to see Hancock's performance alongside an ensemble cast of established and emerging talent in one of television's most critically acclaimed dramas.
