In a surprising twist that has captured the attention of both fans and critics alike, the hit Netflix series 'Emily in Paris' has announced that its lead character, Emily Cooper, will be relocating to Rome in the upcoming fifth season. This decision has sparked a heated debate between French President Emmanuel Macron and the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, with both leaders expressing their strong opinions on the matter.
France's Efforts to Keep 'Emily in Paris'
French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will 'fight hard' to keep the show from relocating to Rome. In an interview with Variety , Macron emphasized his commitment to keeping the show in Paris, stating, 'We will ask them to remain in Paris Emily in Paris in Rome doesn't make sense.'
This stance is not just a matter of national pride; it also reflects the significant impact that 'Emily in Paris' has had on France's tourism industry. A study conducted by France's national film center found that nearly 10% of tourists decided to visit France after watching a particular movie or series, with 'Emily in Paris' playing a key role in inspiring these trips.
The show's creator, Darren Star, confirmed that Emily's move to Rome is part of an effort to expand the show's 'footprint' and 'broaden out the universe.'
However, Macron sees this move as a threat to the show's positive portrayal of Paris. 'Emily in Paris is super positive in terms of attractiveness for the country,' he said. 'For my own business, it's a very good initiative.'
Macron's personal connection to the show adds an extra layer of significance. His wife, Brigitte Macron, made a cameo appearance in season four, which Macron described as 'a very good moment for her.'
Despite his efforts to keep the show in Paris, Macron has no plans to make his own cameo appearance. 'I'm less attractive than Brigitte,' he joked.
The French President's comments have been met with a mix of amusement and skepticism. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri of Rome responded with a lighthearted tweet: 'Take it easy, Emmanuel Macron. Emily in Rome is perfect.'
Gualtieri further emphasized that Netflix does not take orders from heads of state and makes decisions based on production needs rather than political pressure.
'We see Emily's move to Rome as a confirmation that our city is becoming more and more important,' Gualtieri said. 'We are quite relaxed about Netflix production decisions. They know what they are doing. To be honest, we think Mr Macron should just relax.'
The debate between Macron and Gualtieri highlights the complex relationship between politics, tourism, and media representation.
The Impact of 'Emily in Paris' on Tourism
The influence of 'Emily in Paris' on tourism is a significant factor in Macron's efforts to keep the show in Paris. The show's depiction of la belle vie in the French capital has attracted millions of viewers worldwide, many of whom are inspired to visit Paris after watching the series.
According to the study by France's national film center, 38% of tourists who decided to visit France after watching a particular movie or series were inspired by 'Emily in Paris.'
This positive impact on tourism is something that Macron is keen to preserve. By keeping the show in Paris, he hopes to maintain the show's role as a major tourist draw for France.
The Role of Brigitte Macron in 'Emily in Paris'
Brigitte Macron's cameo appearance in season four has added an extra layer of personal interest for the French President. Macron expressed his pride in his wife's involvement, stating, 'I was super proud, and she was very happy to do it.'
The cameo was a brief but significant moment in the show, with Emily Cooper spotting Brigitte Macron in a caf and asking for a selfie. This moment not only highlighted Brigitte Macron's charm but also reinforced the positive image of France that 'Emily in Paris' aims to portray.
Macron's comments about his wife's cameo reflect his broader support for the show. He believes that 'Emily in Paris' is 'super positive in terms of attractiveness for the country' and sees it as a 'very good initiative' for France's image.
The Mayor of Rome's Response
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri of Rome has responded to Macron's comments with a mix of humor and skepticism. Gualtieri tweeted, 'Take it easy, Emmanuel Macron. Emily in Rome is perfect.'
In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Gualtieri added, 'Doesn't President Macron have more pressing matters to worry about?'
Gualtieri emphasized that Netflix does not take orders from heads of state and makes decisions based on production needs rather than political pressure.
'We see Emily's move to Rome as a confirmation that our city is becoming more and more important,' Gualtieri said. 'We are quite relaxed about Netflix production decisions. They know what they are doing. To be honest, we think Mr Macron should just relax.'
The lighthearted tone of Gualtieri's response underscores the lighter side of this political debate.
The Future of 'Emily in Paris'
Despite the ongoing debate between Macron and Gualtieri, the future of 'Emily in Paris' remains uncertain. The show's creator, Darren Star, has confirmed that Emily will have a presence in both Rome and Paris in the upcoming fifth season.
Star explained that Rome was chosen as a setting to expand the show's universe and broaden its appeal. 'Rome to me is like the other great romantic city in Europe,' Star said. 'It's a bit of a yin and yang to Paris.'
The decision to include both cities in the show's narrative reflects the show's aim to explore different aspects of European culture and lifestyle.
However, it remains to be seen how this dual setting will be received by audiences and whether it will maintain the show's positive impact on tourism.
In conclusion, the battle over 'Emily in Paris' between France and Rome highlights the complex interplay between politics, tourism, and media representation. While Macron's efforts to keep the show in Paris reflect his commitment to preserving France's positive image and boosting tourism, Gualtieri's relaxed attitude underscores the reality that Netflix's decisions are driven by production needs rather than political pressure.
As the show continues to navigate its new dual setting, one thing is clear: 'Emily in Paris' remains a significant cultural phenomenon with far-reaching implications for both France and Italy.
