Behind the Scenes with HBO's 'Industry' Showrunners

In this conversational essay, former bankers and now showrunners, Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, discuss their journey in the making of HBO's "Industry"—a series chronicling the chaotic lives of ambitious financiers in London. As season four unfolds, we delve into their daily routines and experiences, with insights provided by both creators.

Embarking on the Journey with Little Experience

Mickey and Konrad began their venture into television with limited exposure, having only visited a film set once prior to launching the large-scale production of "Industry." The pressure was intense, surrounded by seasoned experts. Their initial instinct leaned towards over-managing, driven by the fear that their vision wouldn't translate effectively. This, ironically, occasionally led to communication issues.

Mickey emphasizes that as the person in charge, one's mindset significantly impacts the entire production environment. By maintaining a positive outlook, being kind, and showing gratitude, they foster an environment where everyone strives to perform at their best.

Learning to Let Go and Delegate

With four seasons under their belt, Konrad notes their evolution into proficient delegators. They've embraced collaboration, which allowed their team of talented individuals to contribute deeply to the narrative, oftentimes bringing insights that exceeded the showrunners’ own expectations. Acknowledging the talents around them and loosening their grip has significantly enriched the series.

Fueling Long Days with Coffee and Snacks

The demanding schedule of filming involves both day and night shoots. Despite early morning starts often following late-night finishes, the adrenaline keeps them going like a marathon run at sprint speed. Down shares he was never a morning person until fatherhood reprogrammed his internal clock.

While on set, coffee becomes a staple—particularly for Kay, who admits to consuming multiple cups a day, finding solace in its cheap and strong flavors. The running joke becomes his frequent question, "Why can't I sleep?" amidst such high caffeine intake. Their survival kit also includes snacks like Skittles and Oreos, vital during long shooting days.

Personal Routines and Self-Care

For Kay, exercise forms a significant part of his routine—initiated after a health scare that prompted him to adopt a healthier lifestyle. For Down, baths are essential for relaxation. It's a ritual he steadfastly maintains, often having three baths a day when not on set.

Striving for Phone-free Zones and Continuous Learning

Both showrunners strive to disconnect from their phones to avoid distraction, placing them in separate rooms, especially during family time. Down humorously notes his efforts to learn French on Duolingo during downtime on set—an endeavor that had mixed success.

Their phone habits remain a battle, but they find balance by permitting some usage as long as it doesn't interfere with their roles as directors.

Early Nights and Escaping Fictional Chaos

Contrary to the wild lives of their show's characters, both Kay and Down prefer early nights. They find fulfillment in a quieter life, filled with reading rather than partying. Kay, often teased by Down, prefers to be asleep by early evening, cherishing bedtime relaxation over nighttime socializing.

Their creative outlet through the series allows them to explore the chaos of hard-partying bankers without adopting such lifestyles themselves, leaving them content with the simplicity of tea, toast, and frequent baths.