URGENT UPDATE: Tragedy has struck the set of Emily in Paris as assistant director Diego Borella collapsed and died during filming in Venice on Thursday evening. Borella, 34, fell unconscious around 7 p.m. at the iconic Hotel Danieli, where the crew was preparing to shoot a pivotal scene for the highly anticipated Season 5 of the Netflix series.
Despite immediate attention from the on-set medical team, Borella was pronounced dead at the scene. Local reports indicate he may have suffered a sudden heart attack, sending shockwaves through the production team and the entire film community.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Paramount Television Studios expressed heartfelt condolences:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the sudden passing of a member of the Emily in Paris production family. Our hearts go out to the individual’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Borella, who had previously worked on the Italian medical drama DOC – Nelle tue mani, was brought on as a third assistant director for this season. Following his tragic passing, production was briefly paused but resumed on Saturday, demonstrating the crew’s resilience in the face of such a heartbreaking loss.
Season 5 of Emily in Paris, which Netflix officially greenlit last September, began filming in Rome earlier this year before transitioning to the romantic streets of Paris and Venice. Showrunner Darren Star recently teased fans about the upcoming season, stating,
“I think we’ve got a really terrific season coming up. We filmed in Rome for the first four weeks, and that was an exciting experience. Now we’re back in Paris, Emily is definitely back in Paris.”
Despite the somber atmosphere surrounding the set, the production team is committed to honoring Borella’s memory. The much-anticipated Season 5 is still set to premiere on Netflix on December 18, promising to deliver the same charm and wit that fans have come to love.
As details continue to emerge, the cast and crew are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of community in such challenging times. Fans and colleagues are expected to pay tribute to Borella’s legacy as they eagerly await the show’s return.
