Diego Borella, Emily in Paris Assistant Director, Dies Suddenly at 47

VENICE — August 2025. A tragic event unfolded on the set of Emily in Paris when assistant director Diego Borella, just 47 years old, collapsed while filming the final scene of Season 5 at the stunning Hotel Danieli. Despite the swift response from medical personnel, he was sadly pronounced dead around 7 p.m., with authorities suggesting a sudden heart attack as the cause.

Borella was a well-respected figure in the industry, known for his artistic range and experience in cities like Rome, London, and New York. In addition to his directing work, he also penned children’s fairy tales and poetry, revealing a creative spirit that thrived in both literature and film.

Filming was set to conclude on August 25, but production has been put on hold as the cast and crew come to terms with this heartbreaking loss. Season 5 of the series, primarily set in Rome and Venice, is still scheduled for a December 18 release, although its future is now uncertain.

This profound loss has cast a pall over what was supposed to be a glamorous finale to the season, as colleagues and fans alike mourn the unexpected passing of a cherished creative talent.