Diego Borella, assistant director of Emily in Paris, tragically passed away at the age of 47 while filming in Venice. Read more about this heartbreaking incident and its impact on the Netflix series.
Diego Borella, an assistant director for Emily in Paris, has tragically passed away at the age of 47. Borella, who was on location in Venice filming the Netflix show’s fifth season, collapsed during the production on Thursday, August 21, and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Tragic Incident During Filming in Venice
According to reports from local news outlets La Repubblica, Il Messaggero, and Corriere della Sera, Borella collapsed while preparing for a final scene at the iconic Hotel Danieli in Venice. Medical staff on set made efforts to revive him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The local doctor who examined him later confirmed that Borella likely died from a “sudden heart attack.”
This tragic event prompted Netflix to temporarily suspend filming for the series, though production resumed on August 23.
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A Well-Known Professional in the Industry
Diego Borella was a well-respected assistant director and a professional in the Italian film industry. Trained in Rome, London, and New York, he had also worked in the fields of visual arts and literature. His recent work on Emily in Paris had brought him back to Italy for the filming of the hit show’s latest season.
Reactions from the Emily in Paris Cast and Crew
In the days leading up to Borella’s death, the show’s star, Lily Collins, had shared behind-the-scenes moments from the Venice set with her followers on Instagram. On August 19, she posted photos from a boat ride in Venice, captioning one image, “Joy ride to and from work with the best….”
Ashley Park, Collins’ co-star, responded with affection, writing in the comments, “You KNOW how much I love you. Another adventure for the books 🥹.”
Though production resumed quickly, this unexpected tragedy has left a heavy mark on the Emily in Paris team.
A Statement from Paramount Television Studios
Paramount Television Studios, which produces Emily in Paris, released a statement expressing their 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.”
What’s Next for Emily in Paris?
Netflix, Darren Star Productions, and Jax Media, the companies behind Emily in Paris, have not yet issued an official comment regarding the incident. However, filming for the series is expected to continue following the brief hiatus.
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