In a dramatic turn of events, cameras are rolling again on Emily in Paris, just 48 hours after the sudden death of assistant director Diego Borella. The beloved Netflix series returned to filming in the beautiful city of Venice, signaling both resilience and determination amidst heartbreak. People.com
What Really Happened
- The Tragic Collapse
On August 21, 2025, at the iconic Hotel Danieli in Venice, Borella, age 47, tragically collapsed while preparing for a final scene and was pronounced dead on set. Vanity FairPeople.com A likely heart attack was identified as the cause. People.com - Emotional Pause, Swift Resumption
Filming was immediately halted, leaving cast and crew grieving—but just two days later, on August 23, production resumed. Lily Collins, along with co-stars Eugenio Franceschini, Ashley Park, and Paul Forman, was seen filming a scene aboard a gondola in Venice. People.comNationalWorldVanity Fair - Official Statement
Paramount Television Studios issued a heartfelt message: “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 tough time.” People.comVanity Fair
Behind the Brief Halt
While grieving the loss of a respected member of their crew, the production schedule was still on track—shooting began on August 15 and was planned to conclude around August 25. With the December 18 premiere date for Season 5 looming, pressing forward may have been as much about commitment as it was about healing. People.comNationalWorldVanity Fair
Borella, a talented Venetian artist trained in Rome, London, and New York, had a diverse creative legacy—including writing and visual arts. Vanity FairThe Sun
What’s Next: What You Should Know
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Season 5 Premiere | Scheduled for December 18, 2025, on Netflix. People.comWikipedia |
| Next Steps for the Cast & Crew | While filming resumes, the production is undoubtedly navigating grief—and viewers can expect both emotional depth and behind-the-scenes solidarity when the season airs. |
This unexpected, bittersweet return to filming illustrates the dedication behind the magic. Despite heartbreak, the world of fashion, romance, and drama in Emily in Paris pushes forward, delivering the show’s signature lighthearted escapism with a newfound weight.