Lily Collins, the star of Netflix's hit series Emily in Paris, has found herself at the centre of an unexpected diplomatic tiff, as the French president and the mayor of Rome engage in a light-hearted battle over the show's location.
A European Political Love Triangle
The controversy stems from the announcement last year that the show's fifth season, which premieres on Thursday, would briefly relocate its action from Paris to Rome. This prompted French President Emmanuel Macron to vow he would "fight hard" to keep the production in the French capital, declaring "Emily in Paris in Rome doesn't make sense."
Appearing at the season five premiere in Paris on Monday, Lily Collins, 36, addressed the ensuing playful sparring with humour. "I never expected in a million years we would be a part of a European political love triangle," the actress laughed, according to reports.
Friendly Rivalry Between Nations
Following President Macron's remarks, Rome's Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, fired back on social media platform X. "Take it easy, Emmanuel Macron. Emily in Rome is perfect," he wrote, adding a winky face emoji. "And besides, you can't command the heart: let's let her choose."
At the premiere, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos framed the debate as a positive cultural exchange. "Emily in Paris has deepened the cultural conversation between France and the world — it even sparked a very friendly rivalry with Italy over which country would claim the heart of Emily," he stated.
What to Expect in Season Five
The new season picks up with Emily Cooper, played by Collins, having moved her marketing agency to Rome and embarking on a new romance with Italian businessman Marcello Muratori. The character's shift follows her turbulent relationship with French chef Gabriel.
While the opening episodes are set in Italy's capital, show creator Darren Star has confirmed that the move does not mean Emily has left Paris for good. "It doesn't mean [Emily's] not going to be in Paris, but she's going to have a presence in Rome," he explained.
The series, which debuted in 2020 during Covid lockdowns, has notable fans in high places. Macron revealed last year that he and his wife, Brigitte, are avid viewers, with the First Lady even making a surprise cameo in season four.
