A tragic loss struck the Emily in Paris set in Venice, Italy, as assistant director Diego Borella, aged 47, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The news of Diego Borella’s death sent shockwaves through the production team and the broader film community. The incident, which unfolded at the luxurious Hotel Danieli, saw Borella collapse in front of colleagues, prompting an immediate response from emergency medical services, who arrived by 6:42 p.m. local time.
Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Borella was pronounced dead at approximately 7:30 p.m. Preliminary reports suggest he suffered a sudden heart attack. While official confirmation on the exact cause of Diego Borella’s death is pending from medical authorities, no details about his prior medical history have been shared publicly.
The suddenness of his passing leaves Emily in mourning in Paris, the team, and the broader film community. Born in Venice in 1978, Borella was a talented filmmaker, writer, and assistant director with a vibrant career. He contributed to the hit Netflix series, Emily in Paris. He previously worked as a production secretary on the Italian TV series DOC – Nelle tue mani, which inspired an American adaptation. His creative passions extended beyond film, as he authored a book of poetry and stories titled 5 7 5. – Haiku per un anno. Friends and colleagues described him as elegant, brilliant, and humorous, with a career that took him from Venice to Rome, London, and New York.
The tragedy halted production temporarily, with filming for Season 5, set to premiere on Netflix on December 18, 2025, resuming on Saturday, August 23. The Venice shoot, part of a 10-day schedule, featured iconic locations like St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal, bringing a romantic Italian backdrop to Emily Cooper’s story.
Paramount Television Studios released a statement expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to Borella’s family and loved ones, though no specific details about his family were disclosed. The film world remembers Diego Borella for his contributions and the passion and spirit he brought to every project.
