Introduction

In a shocking twist at the end of season four, Netflix’s beloved series “Emily in Paris” hinted that its titular character, played by Lily Collins, would be leaving the French capital for the enchanting streets of Rome. This unexpected development has spurred a spirited reaction from French President Emmanuel Macron, who declared that France 'will fight hard' to prevent the series from relocating.

“We will ask them to remain in Paris; ‘Emily in Paris’ in Rome doesn’t make sense,” Macron stated in an interview with Variety. His determined words reflect the pride and cultural significance that the show holds for France, and the government’s intention to keep the series rooted in its vibrant Parisian setting.

The Premise of 'Emily in Paris'

The premise of “Emily in Paris” revolves around Emily Cooper, a spirited American marketing executive who relocates from Chicago to Paris for work, embracing the glamorous Parisian lifestyle along the way. The series consistently ranks among Netflix's most-watched titles, and following its renewal for a fifth season, creator Darren Star revealed that Emily would indeed have a presence in Rome, leading to the current debate about its filming location.

Response from Rome's Mayor

In a lighthearted retort, Rome's mayor Roberto Gualtieri playfully assured Macron via X, “Dear Emmanuel Macron, don’t worry: Emily is doing great in Rome. One can’t control the heart; let’s let her choose.” He further questioned whether Macron might have more pressing issues to address, highlighting the absurdity of a head of state attempting to influence a streaming giant's decisions.

Brigitte Macron's Cameo

Adding to the show's allure, First Lady Brigitte Macron made a cameo in season four, where Emily encounters her in a café, asking for a selfie. Macron expressed pride in his wife’s participation, stating, “It’s just a few minutes, but I think it was a very good moment for her. It’s good for the image of France.” He emphasized that “Emily in Paris” plays a significant role in enhancing the country's appeal, benefiting both tourism and cultural diplomacy.

Impact on Tourism

Despite the show being criticized for perpetuating certain clichés about Paris and glossing over pressing social issues, a study by France's national film center revealed a surprising outcome: around 10% of tourists cited their viewing of specific movies or series as a factor in deciding to visit France. Notably, “Emily in Paris” inspired 38% of those tourists in their quest for a French getaway, showcasing the show's undeniable influence on international travel trends.

Macron's Stance on Guest Appearances

Interestingly, while Macron supports the show and acknowledges its positive impacts, he has no aspirations to make a guest appearance himself. With characteristic modesty, he quipped, “I’m less attractive than Brigitte,” further endearing himself to fans of the series.

Conclusion

As the debate rages on, the world watches closely to see whether “Emily in Paris” will continue to shine under the Eiffel Tower or take a charming detour to Rome. Will Macron's dedication save the series for Paris? Stay tuned for updates!