Sarah Brady
French President Emmanuel Macron has stepped into the conversation surrounding Netflix’s beloved series, “Emily in Paris,” expressing a strong desire for the show to remain set in France. After the Netflix hit revealed that the lead character, Emily Cooper, would soon be heading to Rome, Macron declared, “We will fight hard to keep ‘Emily in Paris’ in Paris,” stating that the premise of the show relocating just doesn’t make sense.
Emily’s Journey in Paris
The series follows the adventures of Emily Cooper, a young American marketing executive portrayed by Lily Collins. After moving from Chicago to Paris for work, Emily experiences the city’s charming lifestyle and culture. The show has gained immense popularity, frequently ranking among Netflix’s most-watched offerings.
With the excitement of a fifth season renewal, creator Darren Star hinted that Emily would now have “a presence in Rome.” This announcement sparked a wave of reactions, especially from Macron, who emphasized the show’s importance to France’s image and its potential economic benefits.
A Battle for Paris
In a recent interview with Variety, Macron stated, “Emily in Paris in Rome doesn’t make sense.” He is adamant that France should remain the backdrop for the series, showcasing its culture and allure. Macron feels that the show positively reflects France, attracting tourists and fostering interest in the French capital.
- Highlights of Macron’s stance:
– “We will fight hard” to keep the show in Paris.
– “Emily in Paris” is positive for France’s global image.
– The show has a significant impact on tourism.
Macron’s wife, Brigitte, has previously appeared in a cameo on the show, solidifying the couple’s connection to the series. During season four, she interacted with Emily in a café, highlighting the playful engagement between the two worlds.
Rome Responds
The news of Emily’s potential move to Rome elicited a cheeky response from Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri. He took to social media platform X to quip, “Dear Emmanuel Macron, don’t worry: Emily is doing great in Rome.” The mayor added, “One can’t control the heart: let’s let her choose.” Gualtieri further commented, questioning whether Macron had more pressing issues to address than a fictional character’s romance.
- Gualtieri’s take on the situation:
– A light-hearted jab at Macron’s concerns.
– A reminder that creative decisions are beyond political influence.
The Influence of ‘Emily in Paris’
Despite mixed feelings among some French audiences—who critique the series for leaning heavily into clichés and glossing over serious societal issues—“Emily in Paris” has significantly boosted tourism. A study from France’s national film center found that nearly 10% of tourists decided to visit France inspired by a film or series. Among them, 38% credited “Emily in Paris” as their motivation to explore the country.
This data underscores the show’s powerful impact on travel, making it a valuable asset for the French tourism industry.
Macron’s Personal Connection
While the series has a special place in Macron’s heart, he insists that a cameo appearance is not in his future. “I’m less attractive than Brigitte,” he joked, acknowledging his wife’s star power on the show.
The charm of “Emily in Paris” clearly extends beyond the screen, influencing opinions and inciting banter among public figures. Macron, aware of its implications on culture and tourism, remains a vocal supporter.
Conclusion
As the future of Emily’s story hangs in the balance between Paris and Rome, the debate reflects broader themes of cultural identity and national pride. With Macron’s firm belief in the show’s role in promoting France, it remains to be seen how Netflix will navigate this creative crossroads. Will Emily find love in the City of Light, or will her heart lead her to the enchanting streets of Rome? One thing is certain: the spirited exchange between politicians and the fictional world of “Emily in Paris” captures a light-hearted yet meaningful discussion on the art of storytelling and its real-world implications
