UPDATE: Tragedy struck the set of Emily in Paris as assistant director Diego Borella collapsed and died on Thursday, October 26, at approximately 7 p.m. while filming at the iconic Hotel Danieli in Venice. Multiple Italian news outlets report that Borella likely suffered a sudden heart attack.
Crew members quickly summoned the on-set medical team, but Borella was pronounced dead at the scene. A statement from Paramount Television Studios expressed deep sorrow over the loss: “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, known for his work on the Italian medical drama DOC – Nelle tue mani, was hired locally as a third assistant director for the fifth season of the popular Netflix series. Production was briefly halted but resumed just two days later on Saturday.
Despite the heartbreaking incident, the highly anticipated Season 5 is still set to premiere on Netflix on December 18. Earlier this month, showrunner Darren Star shared his excitement about the new 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 to be there. Now we’re back in Paris, Emily is definitely back in Paris.”
This shocking event has cast a somber shadow over the production, which had previously moved from Rome to Paris and now to Venice for its final filming phase. The production team is now focusing on honoring Borella’s memory as they continue their work.
As fans await the new season, this tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those working in the entertainment industry. The emotional impact reverberates through both the cast and crew, as well as the wider community of fans who cherish the series.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
