Toheeb Jimoh Discusses His Role in ‘Industry’ Season Four

Toheeb Jimoh, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” has joined the cast of HBO’s “Industry” for its fourth season, portraying Kwabena Bannerman, a trader navigating the cutthroat world of finance. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Jimoh reflected on the complexities of the series, which delves into the morally ambiguous lives of investment bankers. He noted that the show’s intention is not necessarily for viewers to like its characters, but to understand their motivations and the decisions they make.

The latest season, which premiered on February 6, 2024, has intensified its narrative, introducing Whitney Halberstram, played by Max Minghella. Whitney’s character emerges as a formidable antagonist, having recently taken control of Tender, a struggling payment processing company attempting to establish itself as a major U.K. bank. Jimoh mentioned that the tension escalates in episode five when Kwabena and his colleague Sweetpea (Miriam Petche) travel to Accra, Ghana, to investigate potential money laundering activities linked to Tender.

“Tender is really, really on the ropes,” Jimoh stated, indicating the precarious position the company finds itself in as the investigation unfolds. The duo’s discovery of Tony Day (Stephen Campbell Moore), Tender’s CFO in the EMEA region, who is prepared to expose the company’s malpractices, could serve as a pivotal moment in the storyline.

In a dramatic turn, Sweetpea faces violence during their trip, leading to a moment of intimacy between her and Kwabena. Jimoh described this scene as a rare instance of vulnerability within the often harsh realities of the show. He explained that the characters, amidst their struggles, find brief reprieve in one another, allowing them to shed their emotional burdens.

Discussing his character, Jimoh emphasized that Kwabena is not defined by the relentless ambition that characterizes many of his peers. Instead, he seeks a sense of belonging and stability. “For the most part, Kwabena’s just trying to cash a check,” Jimoh remarked, highlighting the character’s more laid-back approach compared to the hyper-competitive atmosphere surrounding him.

The intricate dynamics between Kwabena and Harper (Myha’la), his boss and romantic interest, add depth to the narrative. Jimoh noted the complexities of their relationship, particularly as it exists within the hierarchical structure of their workplace. The tension between their professional and personal lives creates a fascinating backdrop for their interactions.

As the series progresses, the significance of Kwabena and Sweetpea’s investigation becomes increasingly critical. Their findings could not only jeopardize Tender’s future but also challenge the power dynamics established by Whitney. Jimoh teased that audiences will need to stay tuned to see how the plot develops, especially regarding Whitney’s ability to navigate the crisis.

Reflecting on the production experience, Jimoh shared insights into filming intimate scenes, which he encountered on his first day on set. He emphasized the safety and professionalism maintained during these moments, facilitated by an intimacy coordinator. “They’ve built a real safe environment,” he explained, adding that the focus remains on the work rather than sensationalism.

As the fourth season continues to unfold, Jimoh’s contributions to “Industry” highlight the show’s exploration of ambition, morality, and personal connections in the high-stakes world of finance. The series, praised for its authentic portrayal of the industry, remains a platform for young talent, with Jimoh underscoring the unique opportunities it presents.

With more episodes yet to air, viewers can anticipate further developments in Kwabena’s journey and the overarching narrative that scrutinizes the complexities of ambition and morality in the financial sector.