Assistant Director, Diego Borella, dies at 47 during ‘Emily in Paris’ filming in Venice

Borella collapsed while filming Emily in Paris season 5 in Venice, halting production days before wrapping the finale.

Diego Borella, an assistant director on Netflix's Emily in Paris, has died at the age of 47 after collapsing during production of the show’s fifth season in Venice, Italy. The incident occurred on Thursday, August 22, at the Hotel Danieli, where the crew was preparing to film the season’s final scene, according to Italian outlets La Repubblica, Il Messaggero, and Corriere della Sera.

Emergency services were called at approximately 6:42 p.m. local time, but despite attempts to resuscitate him, Borella was pronounced dead around 7:30 p.m. Medical personnel believe he suffered a sudden heart attack. Production on the series was immediately suspended following the tragedy but later resumed on Saturday, August 23, as reported by Il Messaggero.

Borella, a Venice native, had a distinguished career working across Rome, London, and New York. In addition to his film work, he was also active in the visual arts and literature, La Repubblica noted.

Paramount Television Studios released a statement confirming his death, stating, “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,” per People.

Just days before Borella's death, actress Lily Collins, who plays the lead role of Emily Cooper, shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram from their time filming in Venice. “Joy ride to and from work with the best…,” she captioned a series of images, including one with co-star Ashley Park.

Season 5 of the popular series, created by Darren Star, marks a shift in setting from Paris to Italy, with filming locations including Rome and Venice. Netflix has announced that all 10 episodes of the season are scheduled to premiere on December 18.

Borella's unexpected passing casts a shadow over the production, with tributes and condolences pouring in for the respected filmmaker from across the industry.