Tragedy struck the set of Netflix’s popular series Emily in Paris when assistant director Diego Borella died during the filming of its fifth season in Italy. He was 47.
According to Italian daily La Repubblica, Borella collapsed on Thursday evening while preparing scenes at Venice’s historic Hotel Danieli. Medics arrived swiftly but were unable to revive him, with reports indicating he suffered a fatal heart attack.
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Production of the series has been temporarily halted following his sudden passing.
Born in Venice in 1978, Borella built an accomplished career as a director and writer, working across Rome, London, and New York. He also published fairy tales, haikus, and plays. Friends and colleagues paid tribute to his artistry and character.
Longtime friend Mattia Berto described him as “handsome, elegant, brilliant, and very talented,” calling his death a “young life cut short.”
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The news comes just days after Netflix confirmed Emily in Paris season five will premiere on December 18, 2025. Filming began in Venice on August 15 and is due to conclude next week. The new season will see Emily Cooper, played by Lily Collins, navigate life between Paris and Rome.
While Netflix has not yet issued a formal statement, Borella’s death has cast a shadow over one of the platform’s most anticipated releases of the year.
