Emily in Paris Assistant Director Diego Borella Dies on Set in Venice

Venice, Italy – August 23, 2025 By Staff Reporter

A sudden tragedy struck the set of Netflix’s hit series Emily in Paris. Assistant director Diego Borella, 47, collapsed and died in Venice on Thursday evening.

Local health officials say Borella had a sudden heart attack at 7:00 p.m. This happened as the crew got ready to film a key scene at the historic Hotel Danieli. Medical personnel on site attempted to revive him, but it didn’t work. He was pronounced dead at about 7:30 p.m. local time.

A spokesperson for Paramount Television Studios expressed their sorrow: “We are very sad to confirm the sudden passing of a member of the Emily in Paris production family." Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time”.

Borella trained in Rome, London, and New York. He was well-respected in cinema, visual arts, and literature. Lately, he has been writing poetry and children’s stories, along with his film projects, friends told local media.

Production on the fifth season paused briefly due to Borella’s death. It resumed on Saturday. The cast and crew paid their respects before returning to the Venice location. Netflix is set to launch the season on December 18. Episodes will feature locations in Paris, Rome, and Venice.

Background on Diego Borella

Age: 47
Role: Third Assistant Director on Emily in Paris Season 5
- Career: - Trained in leading global film hubs. - Contributed to projects in Italian cinema and TV. - Published works as a poet and children’s author.

Immediate Aftermath

Filming paused for two days; resumed August 23 with a moment of silence on set.
Local health service confirmed ambulance arrival at 6:42 p.m. and declaration of death at 7:30 p.m..

Borella is survived by his family in Venice and a broad circle of friends in the film community. They remember him as “a brilliant and compassionate artist” whose life ended too soon.