Diego Borella dies at 47: What to know about the “Emily In Paris” AD
Diego Borella, assistant director of Emily in Paris. Credit: Instagram
The entertainment industry is mourning the sudden loss of Diego Borella, the beloved assistant director of Netflix’s hit series Emily in Paris. Borella died at the age of 47 after collapsing on set in Paris, leaving colleagues and fans shocked by the tragedy.
Who Was Diego Borella?
Diego Borella was an Italian-born assistant director and production manager with decades of experience in film and television. He worked on a wide range of international productions, earning a reputation for professionalism, warmth, and his ability to bring order to demanding shoots.
Best known recently for his role behind the scenes of Emily in Paris, Borella helped shape the Netflix romantic comedy into the global phenomenon it became. His colleagues described him as the “heart of the set”, a figure who made production days smoother and more enjoyable for cast and crew alike.
What Happened on Set?
According to reports from BBC News, ABC News, and People, Borella collapsed suddenly during the filming of Emily in Paris Season 5 in Paris. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead.
The unexpected death left the production temporarily halted, with cast and crew offered counseling and support as they processed the devastating news. Netflix and the show’s creators have not yet confirmed when filming will resume.
Tributes from Colleagues and Friends
Tributes quickly poured in from across the entertainment industry. Crew members praised Borella’s leadership, calling him a “mentor” and a “family man who treated everyone with kindness.”
Emily in Paris creator Darren Star reportedly expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Borella’s indispensable role in the series. Cast members, including Lily Collins, also shared emotional posts remembering his generosity, sense of humor, and dedication.
The outpouring of grief underscores how vital Borella was, not just to the Netflix hit, but to the many projects and lives he touched throughout his career.
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Diego Borella’s Career in Film and Television
Beyond Emily in Paris, Borella’s career spanned European and American productions, where he contributed to both independent films and large-scale projects. His behind-the-scenes expertise ensured smooth coordination on complex shoots, often making him the unsung hero of productions.
Many who worked alongside him said Borella embodied the quiet resilience that keeps film and TV sets running. His death marks a profound loss to the entertainment world, especially as the industry continues to grapple with the pressures of production in the streaming era.
Impact on Emily in Paris
The sudden passing of Diego Borella has cast a shadow over the upcoming fifth season of Emily in Paris. The show, starring Lily Collins, has been a cornerstone of Netflix’s international content strategy since its debut in 2020.
Fans have expressed their condolences across social media, with many emphasizing that Borella’s contributions behind the camera helped make the show what it is today. His legacy will live on through the episodes and projects he helped bring to life.
Remembering Diego Borella
At just 47, Borella’s death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the immense stress often carried by those working behind the scenes in entertainment. Colleagues remember him as more than just a professional, he was a friend, mentor, and source of light during long, demanding production days.
As the industry mourns, the focus now turns to celebrating his life and work. His dedication to storytelling, though largely unseen by audiences, was critical in shaping memorable experiences on screen.
