'Emily in Paris' assistant director Diego Borella dies at 47 after collapsing on set in Venice

VENICE, ITALY: Diego Borella, assistant director of the Netflix hit 'Emily in Paris', has died at the age of 47.

Borella reportedly collapsed on Thursday, August 21, while filming the show’s fifth season in Venice, Italy, and was pronounced dead on the set.

Diego Borella most likely died of a 'sudden heart attack' during 'Emily in Paris' Season 5 shoot

Local news outlets like La Repubblica and others reported that the tragic incident happened around 7.00 pm local time inside Hotel Danieli, where the team was preparing for a final scene.

Medical staff on set, as per the reports, attempted to revive him, but he died at the scene.

A local doctor later confirmed that Borella most likely died of “a sudden heart attack,” according to La Repubblica.

Studio, friends and fans pay tribute to Diego Borella

Paramount Television Studios paid their respects following the death of the assistant director.

“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,” a Paramount Television Studios spokesperson said in a statement.

Filming for the fifth season of the series was briefly suspended following Borella’s death, according to Il Messaggero. Production resumed on Saturday.

La Repubblica noted that Borella was a well-known Venetian professional who had trained in Rome, London, and New York. Alongside his work in film, he was also active in the visual arts and literature.

"The last time we saw each other was at a dinner in Paris with his best friend and mine, whom I called on Thursday: he was devastated,” Borella’s longtime friend Mattia Berto told Spanish newspaper El Mundo. “Diego had a great sense of humor, he was brilliant and very talented. His was a young interrupted life, so there are not many words. Just a great sadness.”

He had been in Italy for the filming of the new season in recent weeks. 

Just days before his death, Lily Collins, 36, who plays Emily, posted photos from Venice on Instagram with co-star Ashley Park. “Joy ride to and from work with the best…,” Collins wrote in her caption.

Fans also expressed their excitement for the upcoming season of 'Emily in Paris'. “Can’t wait for the next season of Emily in Paris!” wrote a user in response to Collins’ behind-the-scenes photos.

On Borella’s last Instagram post from June 12, tributes began to pour in. “Rest in peace bro,” one person commented. Another wrote, “Rip….😢.”

One more wrote, "😢❤️just saw the news...my condolences to your family, friends & colleagues ❤️."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.