Heartbreaking Tragedy Strikes Emily in Paris Set! 💔 The Emily in Paris Season 5 shoot in Venice was rocked by a devastating loss that no one saw coming. A beloved crew member collapsed on set, and the shocking truth behind their passing has left the cast, crew, and fans in disbelief. 😢 What really happened at the iconic Hotel Danieli? You won’t believe the details. Click the link to uncover the full story and join us in honoring their memory.

On August 21, 2025, the vibrant set of Emily in Paris Season 5 in Venice, Italy, was struck by an unimaginable tragedy. Diego Borella, a 47-year-old assistant director and respected filmmaker, collapsed during filming at the historic Hotel Danieli and was pronounced dead shortly after. The sudden loss sent shockwaves through the cast, crew, and global fanbase of the Netflix hit series. Initial reports speculated on the cause, but the revelation of Borella’s likely heart attack has left many grappling with grief and questions about the pressures of high-stakes productions. This article delves into the details of the incident, Borella’s legacy, the impact on Emily in Paris, and the broader implications for the film industry.

A Devastating Moment on Set

The Emily in Paris team was in the final stretch of filming Season 5, with production scheduled to wrap between August 15 and August 25, 2025, in Venice. The crew was shooting at the luxurious Hotel Danieli, a 14th-century palazzo known for its opulent interiors, when Borella suffered a medical emergency around 7 p.m. local time. According to Italian news outlet La Repubblica, medics rushed to the scene but were unable to revive him. A local doctor cited by the outlet indicated that Borella likely suffered a heart attack, a diagnosis that stunned those who knew the vibrant and accomplished filmmaker.

Borella, a Venice native, was a seasoned professional who had trained in Rome, London, and New York. Beyond his work as an assistant director, he was an established writer and director, known for his contributions to various genres, including fairy tales and children’s stories. His sudden passing, just days before the Venice shoot was set to conclude, cast a somber shadow over the production.

The Immediate Aftermath

Following Borella’s death, filming was halted, as reported by multiple sources, including Parade and Fiction Horizon. The pause allowed the cast and crew to mourn, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by those who worked alongside him. Paramount Television Studios, a co-producer of Emily in Paris, issued a statement to Variety: “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.” Netflix, however, had not released an official statement at the time of this writing, leaving fans and media outlets to piece together details from local reports and social media.

Just days after the tragedy, production resumed, with lead actress Lily Collins spotted filming scenes on a gondola alongside co-stars Ashley Park, Eugenio Franceschini, and Paul Forman. The decision to continue sparked mixed reactions. Some praised the team’s resilience, while others questioned whether the swift resumption was appropriate. A post on X captured the sentiment of some fans: “Heartbroken for the Emily in Paris crew. How do you go back to filming after something like this? Sending love to Diego’s family.” The resumption aligned with the industry adage, “the show must go on,” but it underscored the emotional toll such incidents take on creative teams.

Who Was Diego Borella?

Diego Borella was more than just an assistant director; he was a creative force with a rich legacy. Born in Venice, he brought a deep connection to the city’s cultural heritage to his work. His career spanned multiple disciplines, from directing and writing to mentoring emerging talent. Italian media outlets, including Il Messaggero and Corriere della Sera, highlighted his versatility, noting his contributions to both film and literature. His children’s stories, in particular, showcased his ability to craft imaginative narratives that resonated with audiences of all ages.

Colleagues described Borella as a dedicated professional whose passion for storytelling was infectious. His role as assistant director on Emily in Paris involved coordinating complex shoots, managing schedules, and ensuring the production ran smoothly. His loss is not only a personal tragedy but also a blow to the creative community in Venice and beyond.

The Context of Emily in Paris Season 5

Emily in Paris, created by Darren Star, has been a global phenomenon since its 2020 debut, blending escapist romance, bold fashion, and European charm. Season 5, set to premiere on December 18, 2025, follows Emily Cooper (Lily Collins) as she navigates her new role as head of Agence Grateau’s Rome office while juggling romantic entanglements with Gabriel (Lucas Bravo), Alfie (Lucien Laviscount), and Marcello (Eugenio Franceschini). The season’s Venice shoot, which included scenes along the city’s iconic canals, promised to add a new layer of visual splendor to the series.

The timing of Borella’s death was particularly poignant, coming just days after Lily Collins shared an Instagram post on August 20, 2025, announcing the Season 5 release date and teasing “Emily’s Italian adventure.” The contrast between the excitement of the announcement and the tragedy that followed underscored the unpredictability of life on set.

The Broader Implications

Borella’s passing raises important questions about the pressures of film production. The Emily in Paris shoot in Venice was part of a tight schedule, with filming moving from Rome to Paris to Venice within months. The industry’s demanding pace, often requiring long hours and high-stakes decision-making, can take a toll on crew members’ health. While there’s no evidence that work conditions directly contributed to Borella’s heart attack, the incident has sparked conversations about workplace wellness in Hollywood.

In recent years, organizations like the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) have advocated for better working conditions, including reasonable hours and mental health support. The 2021 IATSE strike negotiations highlighted issues like crew burnout, and Borella’s death serves as a stark reminder of the need for systemic change. An X user commented, “Film sets are grueling. We need to talk about how much pressure crew members are under. RIP Diego.” While speculative, such sentiments reflect growing awareness of the human cost of entertainment.

The Emotional Impact on Cast and Crew

The Emily in Paris team is a tight-knit group, with many cast members publicly expressing their affection for the collaborative environment. Ashley Park, who plays Mindy Chen, spoke to People in 2021 about the challenges of filming during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the crew’s resilience. Borella’s death likely deepened the cast’s appreciation for their colleagues behind the scenes. Lily Collins, known for her close relationships with the crew, has not publicly commented on the tragedy, but her return to filming suggests a commitment to honoring Borella’s work by completing the season.

The decision to resume filming also reflects the economic realities of television production. With a reported budget of $3–5 million per episode, halting production indefinitely is rarely feasible. Yet, the emotional weight of such a loss lingers, as evidenced by the subdued mood reported on set by outlets like Red94.net.

Fan Reactions and the Road Ahead

The Emily in Paris fanbase, active on platforms like X and Reddit, has expressed a mix of grief and anticipation. Some fans have called for Netflix to dedicate Season 5 to Borella, with one X post reading, “They should put a tribute to Diego in the credits. He helped make Emily in Paris what it is.” Others are eager to see how the season unfolds, with Venice’s romantic backdrop promising to elevate the show’s signature aesthetic.

Season 5’s plot, centered on Emily’s professional and romantic challenges, will likely resonate differently in light of the tragedy. The synopsis hints at a “big secret” threatening one of Emily’s relationships, and fans speculate it could involve her love interests or a betrayal within Agence Grateau. The real-world loss of Borella adds a layer of poignancy to the narrative, reminding viewers of the human stories behind the glamour.

Honoring Diego Borella’s Legacy

As Emily in Paris Season 5 moves toward its December 18 premiere, the industry and fans alike are reflecting on how to honor Borella’s contributions. His work as a filmmaker and writer touched countless lives, and his role in bringing Venice’s beauty to the screen will endure. Some have suggested that Netflix could support a scholarship or foundation in Borella’s name, celebrating his passion for storytelling and mentorship.

For now, the Emily in Paris team is focused on completing the season, a testament to their dedication and Borella’s influence. As viewers prepare to binge the new episodes, they’ll do so with a deeper appreciation for the unsung heroes who make the show possible. Borella’s legacy, like the canals of Venice, will remain a vital part of the Emily in Paris story.