Industry Star Myha'la Opens Up About On-Set Boundaries and Political Observations
The celebrated American actress Myha'la, who portrays the formidable Harper Stern in the critically acclaimed banking drama Industry, has shared candid insights into her professional boundaries and personal reflections. As the show enters its fourth season on BBC and HBO, the 29-year-old star reveals how her approach to intimate scenes has evolved, particularly following her marriage, and offers thoughtful commentary on the political environment mirrored in the series.
Morning Rituals and Character Contrasts
Each day begins with a serene ritual for Myha'la, who selects from a deck of angel cards featuring healing prompts and affirmations. "It really soothes the soul for me," she explains during our conversation in a Berlin hotel room, a stark contrast to her character Harper Stern's chaotic morning routine involving cocaine and caffeine. This calm, grounded demeanor stands poles apart from the impulsive, calculating banker she portrays, highlighting the actor's ability to compartmentalise her personal and professional lives.
Establishing Boundaries in Intimacy Scenes
With Industry known for its raw and uncompromising depiction of sex and power dynamics, Myha'la has implemented strict protocols to ensure her comfort and safety during filming. "If I'm in motion, I say no to a wide shot that includes my head and feet – top to tail – in the same frame. I also say no to shooting pubic hair," she states firmly. These boundaries force the production team to employ creative camera angles while protecting the actor's privacy.
The increasing presence of intimacy coordinators on sets has provided additional security, allowing performers to change their minds at any point. However, Myha'la admits that her perspective shifted after marrying actor Armando Rivera in 2024. "Maybe there was something that felt sacred about kissing, like no one else can have a kiss from me," she reflects, noting that while she remains professional, certain aspects now feel more personal.
Political Reflections and Social Commentary
Industry doesn't shy away from political commentary, with season four addressing what Myha'la describes as a "360 degree shift" in social attitudes between 2021 and 2023. The show features storylines involving offensive language, diversity hiring controversies, and business dealings with unsavoury political figures, reflecting what the actor perceives as a rollback in social accountability.
"The political climate has given people permission to be assholes, and they'll do it really loudly because they no longer fear the consequences," Myha'la observes. She notes that filming in Cardiff shortly after Donald Trump's return to office in 2025 created unique challenges, with British colleagues sometimes treating her as a spokesperson for all Americans during politically charged discussions.
Leadership and Set Responsibilities
As the number one on the call sheet, Myha'la takes her leadership role seriously, inspired by her experience working with Julia Roberts on Netflix's Leave The World Behind. She recalls Roberts' graciousness and commitment to maintaining a positive set environment, a lesson she has implemented on the Industry production. "If I'm in a shit mood, it really affects the whole set. So I always try to come in with a smile on my face and the energy to get the party started," she explains, describing how she once interrupted a lacklustre morning greeting to uplift the crew's spirits.
Career Confidence and Future Outlook
Having landed her breakthrough role straight out of drama school, Myha'la now enjoys greater career confidence and financial stability than ever before. "As a younger version of myself, I was trying to get it right and be perfect every time," she admits. "But now, I'm OK if it doesn't feel like I'm doing a perfect job because I believe in my philosophy, which is that there isn't necessarily a right answer with acting as long as it's true."
With Industry receiving five-star reviews for its daring storytelling and Myha'la's gripping performance, the actress continues to balance her professional commitments with personal boundaries and social awareness. The fourth season promises more of the show's signature blend of financial drama, power struggles, and provocative storytelling that has captivated audiences since its debut.
