In a lighthearted but pointed exchange, Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri had a simple message for French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the potential move of Netflix's hit series *Emily in Paris* to Italy for its fifth season: “Relax.” Gualtieri’s remarks came after Macron declared that he would “fight hard” to keep the show from migrating away from its iconic Parisian setting to the Eternal City, much to the amusement of the Roman mayor.
Gualtieri, a proud supporter of Rome’s growing reputation as a global cultural hub, was quick to address the controversy when President Macron shared his concerns with *Variety*. Macron’s comments came just as rumors began circulating that Netflix might relocate part of the series to Rome, sparking what some might call a lighthearted “battle” over where *Emily in Paris* should set up shop for the new season.
In an interview with *The Hollywood Reporter Roma*, Mayor Gualtieri didn’t hesitate to respond to Macron’s protective stance over the show’s French identity. “You really cannot intimidate or interfere with Netflix production plans for the next season of *Emily in Paris*. It is just not done,” Gualtieri stated. He made it clear that while Macron’s attachment to the show is understandable, artistic and production decisions lie beyond the control of even the most influential political leaders.
While the French president’s comments were delivered with a playful tone, Gualtieri couldn’t resist questioning Macron’s priorities, especially given the broader geopolitical issues facing Europe and the world. “Doesn’t President Macron have more pressing matters to worry about?” Gualtieri asked. “I would like to believe, or at least hope, that Macron was joking. He ought to know that a production company like Netflix does not take orders from heads of state or make decisions based on political pressure.”
Macron’s lighthearted defense of the show seems to stem from a deep personal connection. Both he and his wife, Brigitte Macron, are fans of *Emily in Paris*, which showcases Parisian culture and the charm of the French capital through the eyes of the lead character, Emily Cooper, played by Lily Collins. Brigitte Macron even made a cameo appearance in an episode earlier this year, where she shared a scene with Emily in a Parisian restaurant. In the episode, the First Lady warmly tells Emily, “And my country loves you,” to which Emily expresses her admiration for France.
For Macron, the show represents much more than just entertainment. In his comments to *Variety*, the French president emphasized how the show has been a positive force for promoting France’s cultural and tourist appeal. “It’s super positive in terms of attractiveness for the country,” Macron said. “A very good initiative.” He went on to pledge that he would advocate for the show’s continuation in Paris. “We will fight hard,” Macron said, likening the situation to a diplomatic battle. “We will ask them to remain in Paris! *Emily in Paris* in Rome doesn’t make sense.”
However, from Rome’s perspective, Gualtieri sees the potential move as a win for the Italian capital. “Emily’s move to Rome makes a great deal of sense,” the mayor remarked, suggesting that the series’ transition from Paris to Rome reflects the growing prominence of the Italian capital in the world of entertainment and tourism. “We see Emily’s move to Rome as a confirmation that our city is becoming more and more important, and we are quite relaxed about Netflix’s production decisions. They know what they are doing,” Gualtieri said. In a final remark aimed at Macron, he added with a smile, “To be honest, we think Mr. Macron should just relax.”
The friendly exchange between Gualtieri and Macron has also sparked reactions in Paris, where the show’s success has undoubtedly contributed to the city’s global appeal. Anne Hidalgo, the Mayor of Paris, has been more diplomatic in her response. According to *THR Roma*, Hidalgo and Gualtieri discussed the issue in private and shared a laugh over Macron’s emotional plea to keep *Emily in Paris* firmly rooted in the French capital. “We talked, we chuckled about Macron,” Gualtieri said. Hidalgo echoed this sentiment, telling the outlet, “I love Rome, and we are both exclusive cities.” For her, the rivalry between Rome and Paris is friendly, and she acknowledged the unique charms of both cities.
In many ways, the *Emily in Paris* debate highlights the larger cultural competition between Paris and Rome—two of Europe’s most iconic cities, both of which attract millions of tourists each year with their rich histories, world-class architecture, and thriving arts scenes. While Paris has long been a staple in film and television for its romantic and cultural allure, Rome has seen a resurgence in global attention as a filming location for major international productions.
With Netflix reportedly planning to feature Rome in some capacity for season five of *Emily in Paris*, it seems that Emily’s character may be set to embark on an Italian adventure, at least temporarily. And while Macron may “fight hard” to bring the fictional Emily Cooper back to Paris, it’s clear that Rome has warmly welcomed the possibility of becoming her next destination.
As *Emily in Paris* continues to captivate audiences around the world, the playful rivalry between Paris and Rome adds another layer of intrigue to the show’s storyline. Whether Emily ultimately remains in Paris or finds herself enjoying la dolce vita in Rome, fans can expect a season filled with glamorous locations, cultural clashes, and plenty of drama—both on and off-screen. For now, it seems that both cities are content to share in the spotlight, leaving the final decision in the hands of Netflix and its creative team.
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