Industry’s Harry Lawtey Sees Robert’s Ambition ‘Through Northern Eyes’

As I read through this heartfelt account of the actor’s journey and the parallels drawn between his character Robert and the legendary Rick Astley, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of deep resonance. Like Robert and Rick, I too have experienced the tug-of-war between my roots and the world that has embraced me. Though my journey hasn’t led me to global stardom (yet), I can relate to the struggle of maintaining one’s identity amidst the glitz and glamour.

In simpler terms, Robert Spearing, one of the main young bankers in “Industry,” as harshly yet truthfully put by his abusive client, Nicole (Sarah Parish), is finding solace and validation from people much like himself, while also showing signs of codependence. This revelation comes in the season-three opener of “Industry.” Tragically, Nicole passes away soon after this conversation.

1) The traumatic experience and Nicole’s final remarks will undoubtedly linger in Robert’s mind, as he makes his way at Pierpoint & Co., appearing the epitome of a rising banker with his polished demeanor, being an Oxford-educated white man from a working-class background. This background, accentuated by Lawtey‘s distinctive northern English tone, has significantly influenced Robert’s attempts to fit in with his new circle.

In the second episode titled “Smoke and Mirrors,” Robert, who serves as a counterbalance to the aristocratic Henry with questionable business morals, struggles to control Henry’s unchecked impulses and yearns for his approval. In this episode, their conflict escalates when Robert criticizes Henry for his insensitivity towards their clients, prompting Henry to try to provoke Robert into calling him a snobbish jerk. The altercation between the two men ensues in Lumi’s office playground. However, Robert is soon pulled back into the web of deceit by Yasmin’s plan to salvage the Lumi Initial Public Offering (IPO). Later on, Robert is tasked with accompanying Henry to a gentleman’s club, where he must tolerate not only Henry’s godfather’s aristocratic contempt but also the growing evidence of the privileged bond shared by Yasmin and Henry, which excludes him.

As a passionate cinephile, I’ve always found Robert to be someone who perpetually yearns for validation in less-than-ideal sources. Even before the third season of ‘Industry’ premiered, I had analyzed the intricate mix of forces propelling and hindering Robert’s distinctly British ambition.

As a seasoned individual with decades of life experience under my belt, I can empathize with Robert’s current situation. I too have faced moments where personal and professional challenges collide, leaving me feeling like a cannonball shot out of a gun. The death of someone close to us and the pressure of a major event such as an IPO can be overwhelming. It’s a delicate dance between maintaining composure at work while grappling with deep emotional turmoil at home. It’s a stark reminder that life doesn’t always follow a neat, linear path, but rather ebbs and flows like the ocean tides. In such times, it’s essential to find solace in support systems, lean on those who care for us, and remember that we are resilient. We may shrivel temporarily, but like a phoenix, we have the capacity to rise from the ashes stronger than before.

It’s fascinating how he’s splurged on purchasing the home they now share with Yasmin and Harper, yet hasn’t managed to complete its renovation.
This situation can be likened to a gnawing skeleton around him, slowly consuming him from the outside. It’s also a charming tribute to those who resist change. In the first season, he bought a motorcycle that he doesn’t require and appears foolish on, and this house serves as an expanded reflection of that predicament.

Did you discuss with creators Mickey Down and Konrad Kay their plans for Rob at the beginning of the season?
At the start, we have a wide-ranging conversation about their aspirations for the show, but things can change quickly. We never know exactly what’s coming next. However, they also give us a great deal of freedom to explore and adapt. The show has always had an energetic and chaotic feel, and as an actor, it feels like being in the midst of a whirlwind. This season is a big risk, which requires ambition. Having Kit and Sarah Goldberg join the cast has added to that ambition, as they are both established actors who wanted to be part of our team.

How would you describe your experience collaborating with Kit? I found it incredibly enjoyable. There was an undeniable camaraderie between us, almost like a strong friendship. From the beginning, it seemed as though our working relationship was built on mutual understanding of our shared goals and perspectives.

The class difference between Kit’s character and Robert significantly shapes the narrative, creating an intriguing dynamic where he serves under this high-class boss whom he finds difficult to respect. Can you describe your experience in portraying that tension?

Are your parents both originally from the northern town of Barton-upon-Humber? They grew up there and met as young children, but they eventually moved away. I myself was born elsewhere because my father, who worked as a military aircraft engineer, got a job offer in Oxford when he was young. Many of their friends and family members considered this move to be quite glamorous.

Although I was born elsewhere, the place I feel connected to isn’t where I reside. I go there every Christmas to spend time with family and cheer for their local football team. There’s a hint of a northern accent in my voice, yet it doesn’t always give away my origins. Navigating that feeling is something I deal with on occasion. Fun fact: This sentiment somewhat resembles Rick Astley’s experiences, although he might not be the most typical person to bring up in this context.

In a similar vein to “Never Gonna Give You Up”, there’s an intriguing interview I came across where Rick Astley himself revealed something that resonated with me, and I believe it mirrors Robert’s character in the series. He shared that his family hails from Manchester, and he was raised in a working-class home before ascending to international fame with that song. Despite living away from Manchester for three decades and leading a life of a different social class, Rick said, “I see the world through northern eyes.” This phrase echoes my own feelings as I view the world from my parents’ perspective. I believe Robert is just like this. He finds himself in a harsh environment that primarily judges people based on their ability to generate profit. However, Rob is all heart with moments of impulsiveness, and the show chronicles his gradual self-exploration journey.

What was it like for you, Myha’la, and Marisa Abela to have Industry serve as a stepping stone for your careers in film? To put it simply, Industry has played a substantial role in my professional journey and personal life. Working alongside these two powerfully gifted actresses has been an extraordinary experience. We’ve formed a strong bond since the second week of production, and our WhatsApp group serves as a supportive network for us. In fact, we even went on a trip to Brussels during the first season filming, which was quite unusual yet unforgettable! As Myha’la had to leave the country briefly to renew her visa, it was an opportunity for us to have a fun getaway in Europe’s diplomatic capital.

It’s amusing to notice in the third season that new, younger cast members are joining the show, making us no longer the rookies. Back when I first joined, I was constantly asking questions every day, but this season someone asked me a few, and it hit me that I now have the answers! There’s an interesting parallel in how we came onto the show as students fresh from university, plunged into a world we didn’t fully grasp, mirroring real life. Now, we feel like protectors of these characters, who hold significance for us and have personal connections that run deep. Sometimes it’s eerie: I recently filmed a scene where Robert has a leaking ceiling, and then a week later, I experienced the same problem at home!

How do you connect with fans of Industry? Have you crossed paths with finance professionals like Rob who also follow the series?

2024-08-19 05:54

Industry’s Harry Lawtey Sees Robert’s Ambition ‘Through Northern Eyes’

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