Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 28, 2025 · Entertainment

Lily Collins' Emily in Paris Post Sparks Outrage: Fans Demand Tribute to Fallen Director

Lily Collins has been me with furious backlash from fans after failing to acknowledge the Emily In Paris director who passed away on set this month

SHOCKING SILENCE: Lily Collins Faces Backlash for Omitting Tribute to Late Assistant Director on Social Media

In a move that has left fans of the hit Netflix series Emily in Paris reeling, actress Lily Collins took to Instagram to announce the completion of filming for season five without so much as a mention or tribute to her late assistant director, Diego Borella. The 47-year-old director and writer tragically passed away on set just three days prior due to a heart attack.

Collins' insensitive post, which featured a montage of behind-the-scenes pictures with co-star Ashley Park, was met with an outpouring of criticism from fans who felt the actress's silence was in bad taste. "Doesn't this seem a little tasteless and tacky? An assistant director died just 3 days ago on set?!" one fan commented.

The actress, 36, took to Instagram on Wednesday to announced that the filming for season five had come to a close and shared a montage of behind-the-scenes pictures with her co-star, Ashley Park

The controversy has sparked a heated debate among Emily in Paris enthusiasts, with many calling for Collins to acknowledge Borella's passing and express condolences to his loved ones. One user pointed out the glaring omission, stating, "No mention of the guy that passed? RIP Diego Borella."

The incident comes as a shock to fans who had grown accustomed to Collins' warm and engaging social media presence. Her decision to ignore the tragedy has left many questioning her character and judgment.

Diego Borella was an accomplished director and writer with a wealth of experience, having trained in some of the world's most renowned cities, including Rome, London, and New York. His work extended beyond film and television, as he had successfully published fairy tales, haikus, and plays.

Lily wrote: ¿And that¿s another wrap on @emilyinparis¿ Here's to five seasons of friendship turned sisterhood ¿ Venice, Paris, Rome, anywhere is home with you by my side'

According to Spanish newspaper El Mundo, Borella was pronounced dead at 7:30 pm after resuscitation attempts failed. The tragic news sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many paying tribute to his life and work on social media.

Longtime friend Mattia Berto spoke out about Borella's passing, describing him as "a handsome, elegant boy with a lot of style." He shared fond memories of their time together and expressed his sadness at the loss of such a young and talented individual.

As Netflix prepares to release season five on December 18, fans are left wondering how Collins could have been so insensitive. The show's creators had already announced that season five would be set in Rome, marking a new chapter for Emily Cooper (played by Collins) as she continues her European adventure.

Diego Borella was born in Venice in 1978 and was an accomplished director and writer, who trained in cities across the world including Rome, London and New York

The controversy has raised questions about the tone and values of the show's cast and crew, leaving fans to speculate whether this incident will have any impact on the show's popularity. One thing is certain: the silence surrounding Borella's passing has left a sour taste in the mouths of many Emily in Paris enthusiasts.

UPDATE: The news of Collins' insensitive post has sparked an even greater sense of urgency among fans, with some calling for Netflix to release a statement addressing the tragedy and acknowledging Borella's contributions to the show. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: this shocking silence will not be easily forgotten by fans of Emily in Paris.

Sources:

Netflix recently announced that season five will be released on December 18.

  • El Mundo
  • The Scholarly Note (thestcholarlynote.com)

The show follows the life and loves of American Emily after beginning a new life abroad as a social media strategist