Diego Borella, a cherished assistant director on Emily in Paris, has tragically passed away at the age of 47. Borella collapsed on set during the filming of the show’s fifth season in Venice, Italy. Despite immediate efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving fans, colleagues, and the cast deeply shaken.
Tragic Incident Halts Filming in Venice
According to local outlets La Repubblica, Il Messaggero, and Corriere della Sera, Borella collapsed around 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, while preparing for a final scene inside the iconic Hotel Danieli.
A local doctor confirmed that the cause of death was likely a sudden heart attack. Paramount Television Studios confirmed the devastating news in a statement: “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.”
Filming was temporarily suspended following the incident but resumed on Saturday, Aug. 23.
A Talented Career Cut Short
Borella, a native Venetian, was a highly respected professional in the film industry. Trained in Rome, London, and New York, he had also worked extensively in visual arts and literature. Recently, he had been in Italy for Emily in Paris’s fifth season, serving as a locally hired third assistant director. His dedication to the craft and warm presence on set made him beloved by colleagues, including Lily Collins and Ashley Park, who had shared behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram just days before the tragedy.
Fans and cast members have taken to social media to mourn Borella’s untimely death, expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his professional excellence and kind spirit. The entertainment world remembers him as a talented filmmaker whose career, though cut tragically short, left a lasting impact.