HBO’s *Industry* has persistently connected with contemporary issues, from the focus on the COVID-19 pandemic in Season 2 to the spotlight on online age verification in the UK in Season 4. In the Season 4 opener, *Industry* escalates its engagement by including a real-life political figure: President Donald Trump.
The character of Trump, played by a look-alike, makes a brief appearance during a moment when a retired Eric Tao (Ken Leung) is on the golf course. Eric and his wealthy friends notice Trump from a distance, donning his iconic red MAGA hat, and they exchange waves.
“Has 47 ever permitted anyone to play through?” inquires one of Eric’s companions.
“Never in this lifetime,” another responds.
This surprising reference underscores *Industry*’s portrayal of a realm of affluence and influence that is beyond the reach of most viewers. It also marks a significant character moment for Eric, reflecting his life post-Pierpoint.
The golf course setting sharply contrasts with the high-pressure trading environment Eric once commanded. It represents a stagnant atmosphere, unlike the vibrant market that Eric prefers, which his golfing friends overlook.
“He’s amidst older white men who have accumulated wealth. They possess passive income, allowing them to only play golf and visit the same restaurants,” *Industry* co-creator Mickey Down explained to Mashable. “Eric tries to convince himself this is the good life, resisting the allure of his former life.”
Trump’s appearance on the golf course relates to Eric’s “old life,” not stemming from his leadership role in the initial three seasons, but rather from his earlier trading experiences.
In Season 2, *Industry* explores Eric’s connection with his mentor, Newman. Although the audience never meets Newman, a pivotal scene in Season 2, episode 4, depicts Eric in Newman’s pristine New York office. A MAGA hat on the desk reveals Newman’s beliefs and hints at his relationship with Eric, who is an Asian subordinate.
“You delve into Eric’s background more in Season 2, uncovering that he endured racial discrimination on the trading floor in the ’90s,” Down remarked.
Eric’s encounter with Trump in Season 4, even at a distance, signifies “the culmination” of his intricate relationship with his mentor, as noted by Down. He included a reference to Newman’s racism in the premiere script to highlight the moment.
“In the script [*Industry* co-creator Konrad Kay and I] authored, Eric’s mentor was this individual. Now he’s present, waving at number 47,” Down stated. “It felt like a genuine moment of, ‘Where am I? How did I end up here? How did someone like me, from my background, find himself waving at the president, who symbolizes these values?'”
New episodes of *Industry* Season 4 debut on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max.