The fifth season of Netflix’s hit romantic comedy-drama Emily in Paris has officially resumed production just days after a tragic loss struck the set. Assistant director Diego Borella, 47, collapsed and died in Venice, Italy, on August 21 while the cast and crew were preparing to shoot a final scene inside the iconic Hotel Danieli.
The sudden event sent shockwaves through the production team, cast members, and fans worldwide. But by Saturday, August 23, cameras were rolling again, with lead actress Lily Collins and her costars spotted back on set, continuing work on the much-anticipated new season.
The Tragic Passing of Diego Borella
Diego Borella was an accomplished assistant director and creative professional who had worked across film, television, and visual arts. According to local news outlets, he collapsed unexpectedly during preparations for a scene inside Hotel Danieli, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Despite immediate attempts by on-set medical staff to revive him, Borella was pronounced dead around 7:00 p.m. local time.
Reports suggest that Borella suffered a sudden heart attack, although official confirmation is pending. His death was confirmed by Paramount Television Studios, which produces the Netflix series. In a heartfelt statement, the studio expressed:
“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’s career extended beyond television. Trained in Rome, London, and New York, he was also active in literature and the visual arts, leaving behind a diverse body of work and a respected reputation in the creative community.
Production Carries On in Venice
Only two days after Borella’s passing, the production team decided to continue filming in Venice. On Saturday, August 23, Lily Collins was seen returning to the set alongside her costars Eugenio Franceschini, Ashley Park, and Paul Forman.
Collins, 36, who plays the beloved titular character Emily Cooper, was photographed on a boat traveling through Venice’s canals before stepping back into filming. The images captured a sense of bittersweet determination, as cast members appeared both somber and focused on continuing the work in Borella’s memory.
Filming for Season 5 had begun in Italy on August 15, with plans to wrap by August 25. Despite the sudden tragedy, production remains on track, with the new season slated for a December 18 Netflix release.
Lily Collins’ Behind-the-Scenes Tributes
Just days before Borella’s death, Lily Collins had been sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her time in Venice with fans on Instagram. On August 19, she posted a joyful picture of herself on a pier, alongside co-star Ashley Park, captioning it:
“Joy ride to and from work with the best…”
In another post, Collins shared photos of herself on a boat, taking in Venice’s famous canals with the caption:
“A very Venetian getaway. When work becomes play…”
The posts, originally meant as lighthearted snapshots of filming, now carry a deeper poignancy for fans in light of the tragedy that soon followed.
Who Was Diego Borella?
While much of the global spotlight is on the Emily in Paris cast, Borella’s passing has reminded many in the industry of the often-unseen individuals who make productions possible. Born and based in Venice, Borella was deeply connected to his city’s cultural scene.
Colleagues describe him as a dedicated filmmaker, writer, and artist, whose work spanned across different mediums. His international training in Rome, London, and New York shaped a career marked by creativity and professionalism.
Though he preferred to stay out of the spotlight, Borella’s contributions were integral to the smooth execution of productions like Emily in Paris, a show known for its elaborate sets, glamorous locations, and complex scheduling.
The Legacy of Emily in Paris
Since its debut in 2020, Emily in Paris has become one of Netflix’s most-watched romantic comedies. Known for its picturesque European backdrops, fashion-forward storytelling, and witty humor, the show follows Emily Cooper, an American marketing executive navigating her career and personal life in Paris.
The series has filmed across multiple European cities, with Venice becoming the latest glamorous backdrop for Season 5. The choice of Venice, with its canals, palaces, and historic charm, continues the show’s tradition of blending romance, culture, and escapism.
For fans, the news that filming has resumed is a reassurance that the season will be completed on schedule. Still, Borella’s death casts a somber note over what would otherwise be a celebratory production milestone.
Moving Forward with Season 5
Despite the tragedy, the cast and crew appear committed to honoring Borella’s memory by finishing what they started. Production insiders note that while safety and emotional support remain top priorities, the decision to carry on reflects both professional resilience and a desire to dedicate the season to Borella’s legacy.
The fifth season is expected to bring fresh twists to Emily’s romantic and professional life while exploring new characters and storylines set against Italy’s enchanting scenery. With Collins, Ashley Park, Eugenio Franceschini, and Paul Forman leading the cast, fans can expect another season of high fashion, cultural clashes, and heartfelt storytelling.
A Difficult but Hopeful Return
The sudden loss of a crew member is always devastating, particularly in a tight-knit team working on a beloved project. Yet, the resilience of the Emily in Paris production reflects the spirit of the entertainment industry—continuing to create while honoring those who contribute behind the scenes.
As Season 5 moves forward, fans will undoubtedly watch with a deeper appreciation, knowing that one of the individuals who helped bring the show to life is no longer with us. In this way, Diego Borella’s legacy will live on through the laughter, romance, and beauty that the show delivers to millions worldwide.