The cast and crew of Emily in Paris are mourning one of their own.
Emily in Paris follows Emily Cooper, an ambitious American woman who relocates to Paris for a job as a social media strategist at a French marketing firm.
The show, starring Lily Collins, is known for its glamorous portrayal of Parisian life, chic fashion, and Emily's romantic and professional escapades.
The fifth season of the show, which is set in Rome, promises to bring fresh settings and new romantic twists to Emily's journey.
Diego Borella, the assistant director for the hit Netflix series Emily in Paris, tragically passed away while filming the show’s fifth season in Venice. Borella, 47, collapsed in front of the shocked crew as they were preparing to shoot the final scenes of the upcoming season.
Despite efforts by medics, who arrived at the scene at around 7PM on Thursday, he could not be saved. It is believed that Borella died from a heart attack, The Independent reports.
Filming for Emily in Paris has been temporarily paused following the incident. Borella, born in Venice in 1978, was a well-known director and writer, having trained in various cities including Rome, London, and New York. His body of work also included fairy tales, haikus, and plays.
His longtime friend, Mattia Berto, expressed deep sadness, recalling fond memories of Borella. “Diego had a great sense of humor, was brilliant, and very talented. His is a young life cut short, so there aren't many words. Just great sadness.”
Borella’s sudden death marks a somber moment for the Emily in Paris production, which had only just begun filming its fifth season in Venice on August 15. The season, which will be set in Rome, is scheduled for release on Netflix on December 18.
The show’s lead, Lily Collins, who portrays Emily Cooper, had shared images of herself in a tomato-print sundress while filming on Venice's famous water taxis.
Emily in Paris fans can look forward to a new city, new romantic interests, and a series of challenges for Emily as she adapts to life in Italy.
Borella’s passing has left many mourning the loss of a talented individual, as his friends, family, and colleagues reflect on his impact both on and off the set.