‘Emily in Paris’ to Film in Venice as Season 5 Production Expands

In a noteworthy development for fans of the hit Netflix series ‘Emily in Paris,’ production is set to take place in Venice, Italy, for a segment of its anticipated fifth season. According to Luca Zaia, the governor of the Veneto region, the filming is scheduled to occur between August 5 and August 15, 2025. This announcement not only underscores the show's international appeal but also highlights Venice's growing status as a desirable location for major film and television productions.

Governor Zaia expressed enthusiasm about the news, stating, “This is extraordinary news, confirming how our region is increasingly attractive for major global audiovisual productions.” His statement reflects a broader trend in which regions like Veneto are becoming increasingly sought after for their picturesque settings and cultural heritage, appealing to filmmakers and audiences alike.

The filming in Venice follows an extensive production schedule that began in Rome in May, before returning to Paris in June. The storyline for Season 5 picks up shortly after the events of Season 4, as Emily, portrayed by Lily Collins, navigates her new responsibilities running Agence Grateau’s Italian office while developing a relationship with Marcello, an heir to a cashmere dynasty. This new setting in Venice promises to add a new layer of visual allure to the series, which has already established itself as a cultural phenomenon.

The Venetian backdrop joins a roster of iconic locations previously featured in the series, further elevating the show’s profile. However, the decision to film in Venice also raises pertinent questions about the impact of such productions on local communities. Activists have recently voiced concerns regarding the commercialization of Venice, which they argue is morphing into a playground for the wealthy, often at the expense of its local inhabitants. The city was recently thrust into the limelight during the extravagant wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, igniting protests that highlighted these ongoing tensions between tourism and local needs.

French President Emmanuel Macron has previously voiced his support for the series, expressing a desire for it to remain a staple of French culture. This sentiment creates an interesting dynamic between Macron and Zaia, particularly as both regions vie for the spotlight that ‘Emily in Paris’ brings. The show’s creator, Darren Star, along with executive producers including Tony Hernandez and Lilly Burns, have continued to push the boundaries of storytelling alongside stunning cinematography, a combination that has proven successful in attracting international viewers.

As the filming dates approach, the collaboration between the show’s production team and local entities such as the Veneto Film Commission and Venice-based 360 Degrees Film is expected to bolster not just the local economy but also the cultural visibility of Venice on an international stage. The implications of this production extend beyond mere entertainment; they encompass economic, social, and cultural dimensions that will resonate within the community long after filming concludes.

In summary, the decision to film ‘Emily in Paris’ in Venice not only expands the series’ geographic narrative but also embodies the interplay between local pride and the pressures of global tourism. As audiences await the release of the fifth season, the filming will undoubtedly spark ongoing discussions regarding the sustainability of cultural tourism and the preservation of local identities in historic cities like Venice.