The City of Light shone even brighter on Monday night as the stars of Emily in Paris descended upon Le Grand Rex for the highly anticipated world premiere of the show's fifth season. Leading the glamorous charge was the series' titular star, Lily Collins, who commanded attention in a show-stopping black gown.
Star-Studded Style on the Red Carpet
Lily Collins, 36, looked nothing short of sensational in a daring, extreme plunging ensemble. The Netflix star wowed in a glittering black top paired with a voluminous velvet skirt, featuring a dramatic slit up the front. She elevated her frame with sleek heels and accessorised with a stunning silver diamond necklace and matching earrings, posing confidently on the star-studded red carpet.
She was joined by co-star Ashley Park, who made a bold statement in a sexy, strapless red gown. The eye-catching dress featured a corset-structured top and a long, flowing lace skirt, ensuring all eyes were on her.
Veteran actress Minnie Driver, 55, brought timeless elegance to the event in a sophisticated black gown with a square neckline, which sparkled under the premiere lights. She completed her look with classic black heels and a pair of dazzling silver earrings.
French actress Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, who portrays the formidable Sylvie, showcased her incredible figure in a plunging black lace minidress. The semi-sheer number, boasting a long dramatic train, offered a very leggy display, which she paired with stilettos and spotted tights.
Meanwhile, Lucien Laviscount, 33 (Alfie), cut a dapper figure in a striking red velvet blazer worn over a white open-collar shirt, smiling broadly as he reunited with the cast.
From the Orient Express to the Big Premiere
The glamorous premiere was the culmination of a stylish journey for the cast. Just over the weekend, Lily Collins and her co-stars boarded the legendary Orient Express in Venice before being whisked off to Paris for the event. The cast also participated in a picturesque photocall on Venice's Grand Canal, with the iconic Santa Maria della Salute Basilica providing a stunning backdrop.
They were later joined by co-star Eugenio Franceschini (Marcello) and creator Darren Star for a press conference attended by international media.
New Season Drama and French Reception
Ahead of the new series, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu offered insights into the show's sometimes frosty reception in its primary setting. She admitted to having begged "stiff" French viewers to "have a sense of humour" when watching the series, which initially faced backlash for its stereotypical portrayals.
"They were kind of upset at the beginning because they thought Darren [Star] was making fun of them only," she explained. "I said, look at what he's doing with the American character! But they were so offended." She noted that while the show's success has softened some views, French audiences can remain "very snobbish."
Season five will see Emily Cooper split her time between Paris and Rome as she juggles a new relationship and the responsibility of opening her marketing agency's Italian office. Promotional material has already sparked fan speculation, hinting at a potential romantic twist between Emily's best friend, Mindy (Ashley Park), and her ex-boyfriend, Alfie (Lucien Laviscount).
The official synopsis teases professional and romantic challenges for Emily in Rome, a cascading work fallout, and a big secret that threatens a close relationship. The new season of Emily in Paris will begin streaming on Netflix on December 18.
