Production on the set of “Emily in Paris” was temporarily suspended after third assistant director Diego Borella unexpectedly collapsed while filming in Venice, Italy. Borella was pronounced dead at the scene from “a sudden heart attack” at 7 p.m. local time. He was 47.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the sudden passing of a member of the ‘Emily in Paris’ production family,” a Paramount Television Studios spokesperson said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the individual’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
According to local outlet la Repubblica, the production team was preparing for the final take of the day outside Hotel Danieli when Borella, who was a locally hired Italian third AD, collapsed.
“Attempts by the medical staff on set to revive him were unsuccessful. The Suem doctor, who rushed to the scene, confirmed his death, likely a sudden heart attack,” the outlet also reported.
Borella is described as “well regarded” having worked on sets in Rome, London and New York. In addition to his film career he was also a poet and an author of children’s stories and fairy tales.
Production resumed on Saturday to film the fifth season of “Emily in Paris” which moved filming from Rome to Venice, Italy. Rome was the setting for the back half of Season 4. Season 5 will see Lily Collins’ Emily embrace Venice when the Darren Star-created show returns Thursday, Dec. 18. Netflix dropped first look images for the hit show last week.