Diego Borella: A Life Behind the Camera Interrupted
Introduction
Diego Borella was a gifted Italian assistant director whose creative vision and unwavering professionalism significantly shaped the globally beloved series Emily in Paris. On August 22, 2025, he tragically passed away at the age of 47 in Venice while preparing a scene for Season 5, bringing production to a sudden halt. His passing not only devastated colleagues but also highlighted the often unsung demands of on-location filmmaking. This tribute explores Borella’s background, career journey, impact on Emily in Paris, and the legacy he leaves behind.
From Venetian Origins to International Film Craft
Diego Borella’s cinematic journey began in his native Venice and came to encompass major cultural capitals and storytelling traditions.
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Born around 1978 in Venice, Borella honed his filmmaking passion early in Rome before further training and projects led him to London and New York.
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For over two decades, he established himself in film and television, accumulating a reputation as a skilled third assistant director—adept at managing complex shoots and keeping on-set operations running smoothly.
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Before joining Emily in Paris, Borella contributed to Italian productions, including the medical drama DOC – Nelle tue mani, known for its emotional storytelling and later American adaptation.
Impact Behind the Lens of Emily in Paris
Borella’s work on Emily in Paris was central to the show’s smooth operation and visual authenticity, particularly in its Italian backdrop.
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He served as a third assistant director on the Netflix hit from its debut in 2020 through Season 5 in 2025, helping manage numerous shoots across Paris and Venice.
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In Venice, he was instrumental in overseeing logistics for complex sequences—ensuring that scene setups, timing, safety protocols, and location coordination were executed with precision and professionalism.
The Tragic Passing and Production Fallout
A Fatal Collapse in Venice
Diego Borella’s sudden collapse shook the Emily in Paris team and paused production at a critical moment.
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On August 21, 2025, while preparing a scene inside the historic Hotel Danieli in Venice, Borella collapsed around 7 p.m. local time. Despite rescue attempts by on-site medics and an ambulance arriving at 6:42 p.m., he was pronounced dead at about 7:30 p.m.
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A local physician later indicated that a “sudden heart attack” was the likely cause of death.
Aftermath and Production Resumption
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The tragic event halted filming immediately. Production resumed two days later, reflecting the profound emotional weight on the cast and crew.
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Despite the loss, the fifth season is still scheduled to premiere on December 18, 2025.
Lost to Creativity: A Table of Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Diego Borella |
| Age at Death | 47 |
| Role | Third Assistant Director |
| Notable Project | Emily in Paris (Seasons 1–5) |
| Training Locations | Venice (birth), Rome, London, New York |
| Creative Passions | Cinema, visual arts, poetry, fairy tales |
| Cause of Death | Sudden collapse; likely heart attack |
| Impact on Production | Filming paused; resumed two days later; Season 5 set to premiere December 18, 2025 |
Legacy & Reflections
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Quiet Mastery Behind the Scenes – Borella’s proficiency in coordinating shoots across international locations was foundational to Emily in Paris’s seamless production.
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Cultural Bridge – His training and career traversed European and American artistic landscapes, enriching his visual storytelling palette.
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Artistic Heartbeat – Beyond film, he nurtured his creative voice through poetry, fairy tales, and work in the visual arts.
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Sudden Loss Brings Industry Pause – His death was a rare and traumatic event that deeply impacted cast and crew morale.
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Unfinished Chapter, Lasting Tribute – Production resumed in his absence; his contributions persist in the final episodes of Season 5.
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Reminder of On-Set Pressures – Highlights the physical and emotional tollt on film professionals working under demanding schedules.
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Colleague Praise Speaks Volumes – Described by friends and collaborators as “brilliant,” “humorous,” and immensely talented.
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Work Finds Way to Screen – His legacy continues through the forthcoming episodes he helped shape.
Conclusion
Diego Borella’s passing on the set of Emily in Paris is a profound reminder of the dedication and creative fire that powers the world of film and television—often away from the spotlight. A Venetian soul trained globally, he brought precision, warmth, and artistic flair to his work. As Season 5 of Emily in Paris debuts this December, viewers will see not just the fictional story of Emily but the real-life imprint of Borella’s craftsmanship on screen. May his memory live on through the art he helped bring to life.
