French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced his opinion on Netflix’s popular series Emily in Paris, following the announcement that the show’s lead character, Emily Cooper, will be relocating to Rome in the upcoming fifth season. Macron, who has praised the show for its positive impact on France’s image and tourism, declared in a recent interview with Variety that “France will fight hard” to keep the show in Paris.
The series, starring Lily Collins as Emily Cooper, a young marketing executive from Chicago navigating life in the French capital, has consistently been one of Netflix’s top performers. Its portrayal of Paris, although sometimes criticized for promoting stereotypes, has significantly boosted tourism. According to a study by France’s national film center, Emily in Paris inspired 38% of tourists who were influenced by media to visit the city.
Macron’s connection to the show is personal as well. His wife, Brigitte Macron, made a brief cameo in season four, and her character shared a viral moment with Emily in the series’ first season. Macron praised her participation, stating, “It’s good for the image of France,” and emphasized the positive influence the show has on the country’s appeal to tourists.
Despite his wife’s involvement and the show’s undeniable success in promoting France, Macron humorously noted that he has no plans to make an appearance himself, saying, “I’m less attractive than Brigitte.”
While Emily in Paris has been renewed for another season, its upcoming storyline shift to Rome has left many, including Macron, questioning whether the magic of the show can truly thrive outside the City of Light.