French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his determination to keep the popular Netflix show 'Emily in Paris' set in the French capital, despite the show's plans to relocate to Rome in its upcoming season. Macron stated in an interview that France will 'fight hard' to convince the show's creators to maintain the storyline in Paris, emphasizing that 'Emily in Paris' in Rome doesn't align with the show's essence.
The series follows the adventures of Emily Cooper, a young American marketing executive portrayed by Lily Collins, who moves from Chicago to Paris for work and immerses herself in the city's vibrant lifestyle. 'Emily in Paris' has garnered significant viewership on Netflix and was recently renewed for a fifth season, with the storyline expanding to include Rome.
Macron's connection to the show extends beyond his official capacity, as his wife, Brigitte, made a cameo appearance in a previous season. The French First Lady's involvement in the series was met with enthusiasm, with Macron highlighting the positive impact of 'Emily in Paris' on France's image and tourism industry.
While the show has faced criticism for perpetuating Parisian stereotypes and overlooking societal issues like homelessness, it has undeniably contributed to a surge in tourism to the French capital. A study conducted by France's national film center revealed that a significant portion of tourists were inspired to visit France after watching 'Emily in Paris,' with the show serving as a key motivator for many travelers.
Despite the show's influence and his wife's cameo appearance, Macron humorously dismissed the idea of making his own on-screen debut, acknowledging that he may not possess the same allure as Brigitte. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the show's positive impact and its role in promoting France's cultural appeal.