Diego Borella, an assistant director on Netflix’s Emily in Paris, has died after collapsing during filming in Venice.
The 47-year-old reportedly fell ill in front of colleagues on Thursday evening while preparations were underway for the final scene of the show’s fifth season. Emergency services were called to the Hotel Danieli, where filming was taking place, around 7 p.m., but despite their efforts, he could not be revived, according to Italian outlet La Repubblica.
Borella was a highly regarded Venetian filmmaker who trained in Rome, London, and New York. Beyond his work in film and television, he was also a writer, publishing fairy tales and children’s stories.
Production on Emily in Paris has been suspended following the sudden death of assistant director Diego Borella. Filming for the fifth season, which began on August 15 and was scheduled to conclude by August 25, was just days away from wrapping up.
The upcoming season, set to premiere on December 18, features Lily Collins reprising her role as Emily Cooper, who is now based at Agence Grateau in Rome. Earlier this year, Collins was spotted shooting scenes in the Italian capital, including at the Fendi store and riding a scooter through the streets.
Season four ended with Emily’s blossoming romance with Italian love interest Marcello, played by Eugenio Franceschini, while season five officially expands the storyline into Italy.
In April, French actress Camille Razat — who portrayed Emily’s friend and rival, Camille — confirmed her exit from the series, bidding fans farewell on Instagram.
Netflix has not yet released an official statement regarding Borella’s passing.
