The sudden passing of Diego Borella, a respected assistant director on the Netflix hit “Emily in Paris,” has sent ripples of shock and grief through the entertainment industry. The tragedy, a Sudden On-Set Death, occurred on Thursday, August 21, 2025, while the crew was preparing for a scene in Venice, Italy. Borella’s unexpected collapse and subsequent death have prompted an outpouring of condolences and a temporary halt to filming for the show’s fifth season.
The Tragic Incident
Diego Borella, 47, was on location at the Hotel Danieli in Venice when he collapsed. According to reports from Collider, People.com, and India Forums, medical personnel were immediately called to the scene and attempted to revive him. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful, and Borella was pronounced dead at approximately 7:00 PM local time. The incident occurred during preparations for filming a scene for the highly anticipated fifth season of “Emily in Paris.” The suddenness of Borella’s death has left colleagues and fans in mourning.
Likely Cause of Death
While the official cause of death has not yet been definitively determined, initial reports suggest a likely sudden heart attack. As noted by multiple media outlets, including People.com, an autopsy is pending to confirm the exact cause. Sudden cardiac arrest can occur unexpectedly, even in individuals who appear to be in good health. The results of the autopsy are crucial to provide clarity and closure for Borella’s family, friends, and colleagues. Until the official report is released, the suspected heart attack remains the most probable explanation.
Industry Response and Production Halt
The news of Diego Borella’s passing prompted a swift response from Paramount Television Studios, the production company behind “Emily in Paris.” In a statement released shortly after the incident, Paramount Television Studios expressed their deep sadness and offered condolences to Borella’s family and loved ones. The studio acknowledged Borella’s significant contributions to the series and the profound impact of his loss on the entire production team.
Temporary Suspension of Filming
In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, Paramount Television Studios made the decision to temporarily suspend filming for the fifth season of “Emily in Paris.” This pause in production allowed the cast and crew to grieve, process the shock of Borella’s death, and make arrangements for his repatriation. According to reports, filming was halted on Thursday, August 21, 2025, and resumed on Saturday, August 23, 2025. This brief suspension demonstrates the studio’s commitment to the well-being of its employees and its respect for the gravity of the situation.
Remembering Diego Borella
Diego Borella’s contributions to “Emily in Paris” extended beyond his role as assistant director. He was a valued member of the production team, known for his dedication, professionalism, and positive attitude. Colleagues have described him as a supportive and collaborative individual who consistently went above and beyond to ensure the smooth running of the set. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with him.
Impact on “Emily in Paris”
While the long-term impact of Diego Borella’s death on “Emily in Paris” remains to be seen, it is undeniable that his passing has cast a shadow over the production. The show, known for its lighthearted and romantic themes, now carries a somber reminder of the fragility of life. It is expected that the fifth season will be dedicated to Borella’s memory, serving as a tribute to his contributions and a testament to the bonds forged within the entertainment industry. The creative team will undoubtedly find ways to honor his legacy through their work.
The Importance of On-Set Safety and Health
This tragic incident underscores the importance of prioritizing on-set safety and health in the film and television industry. While the exact circumstances surrounding Diego Borella’s death are still under investigation, his sudden collapse highlights the potential risks faced by production crews, who often work long hours under demanding conditions. Production companies have a responsibility to ensure that adequate medical support is available on set and that protocols are in place to respond effectively to emergencies.
Reviewing Safety Protocols
Following Diego Borella’s death, it is likely that Paramount Television Studios will conduct a thorough review of its on-set safety protocols. This review may include an assessment of the availability of medical personnel, the adequacy of emergency response plans, and the implementation of measures to mitigate the risk of sudden cardiac events. The goal of this review will be to identify any potential gaps in safety procedures and to implement improvements that can help prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The entertainment industry as a whole should take this as an opportunity to re-evaluate safety standards and ensure the well-being of all crew members.
Conclusion
The sudden death of Diego Borella on the set of “Emily in Paris” is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. While the investigation into the exact cause of his death continues, the outpouring of grief and support from colleagues and fans speaks volumes about the impact he had on those around him. His legacy will live on through his contributions to the series and the memories of those who knew and loved him. This tragedy also serves as a crucial call to action for the entertainment industry to prioritize on-set safety and health, ensuring the well-being of all cast and crew members.