Two days after Diego Borella’s death, the shooting of Emily in Paris resumes in Venice.
Shock in the heart
On the night of August 21, while preparing for the final scene at Hotel Danieli, assistant director Diego Borella suddenly collapsed and died of a heart attack at the age of 47.
The doctors present on the set tried their best, but Borella could not be saved. This news shocked the entire crew and fans.
Return in two days
Just two days later, on August 23, the cameras were again focused on the boats of Venice.
The water was as calm as a sphere, but the pain was still visible in the eyes of the crew.
Lily Collins, Eugenio Franceschini, Ashley Park and Paul Forman made their presence while controlling their hearts.
Lily Collins’ courage
36-year-old Lily, sitting in the gondola, showed that both work and love require strength.
She completed the shooting in a calm but focused manner.
In an Instagram post, she wrote, “Joy ride to and from work with the best…”—but who knows the pain hidden behind this laughter?
Support from the cast
Ashley Park took a selfie with Lily in front of the camera, while Eugenio Franceschini and Paul Forman kept their spirits high.
All bowed their heads in Borella’s memory, expressing their pain, yet keeping the drama on set moving forward with professionalism.
Borella’s legacy
Born in Venice, Borella trained in Rome, London, and New York.
He also had a strong influence on the visual arts and literature.
As third assistant director, he indirectly contributed to the brilliance of Emily in Paris—but now his absence will be felt in every frame.
Shooting schedule
The shoot, which began on August 15, was planned to continue until August 25, so that the new season could be released on Netflix on December 18.
Despite Borella’s departure, the team was determined to complete the work that remained and celebrate his memory.
The magic of Venice
Whether it’s the grandeur of Hotel Danieli or the crowds of San Marco Square, Venice adds its golden touch to every shot.
Lily’s Instagram walk-through photos—swinging on a pier, smiling on a boat—showed that 매jik here is a mix of work and play for the two.
Social Media Buzz
The next day, Lily wrote again, “When work becomes play…”—but the truth behind the caption is known only to the team.
Fans sent condolences in the comments, talked about creating a tribute, and shared how Borella’s contribution will be remembered in every episode.
This new chapter in Emily in Paris’ Venetian adventure is both a celebration and an emotional tribute.
When we see Lily shine in the next episode, the story behind her shine will resonate: the memory of a crew member who finished her last scene backstage.