Netflix's "Emily In Paris" has returned for its fifth season, offering viewers a familiar blend of romance, fashion, and picturesque European settings, but with a twist. This time, Emily Cooper, portrayed by Lily Collins, finds herself navigating the professional and personal challenges of Rome, alongside familiar faces and new cast members. Season 5 premiered on December 18, 2025, with all ten episodes available for binge-watching.
The new season sees Emily taking on a significant career step, leading the Rome branch of Agence Grateau. This move signifies a shift in Emily's journey, as she immerses herself in the Italian culture and grapples with the nuances of the Italian fashion industry. However, this transition is not without its challenges. Emily faces work-related hurdles as the Italian division struggles to secure clients, further complicated by cultural differences. A bold decision backfires, leading to emotional turmoil and career consequences for the young marketing executive.
In Rome, Emily finds herself in a relationship with Marcello Muratori, played by Eugenio Franceschini, the charming heir to an Italian cashmere brand. Their romance blossoms, but it is soon tested by the re-emergence of Gabriel (Lucas Bravo), who arrives in Rome intending to win Emily back. This sets the stage for a renewed love triangle, forcing Emily to confront her feelings for both men.
The season explores the complexities of Emily's relationships, including her friendships. Mindy Chen (Ashley Park), Emily's best friend, experiences her own evolution as she continues to pursue her music career. After a stint as a judge on Chinese Popstar, Mindy returns to Paris. The season hints at a surprising romantic connection between Alfie (Lucien Laviscount) and Mindy, adding another layer of complexity to the interpersonal dynamics.
While the season begins in Rome, circumstances eventually lead Emily back to Paris. The Rome office closes, and the Agence Grateau team returns to the familiar streets of Paris. This return marks a reassertion of Paris in Emily's life, forcing her to make decisions about her career and relationships. The finale takes the characters to Venice, where a fashion show becomes a turning point for many of them.
Critical reception to the fifth season has been mixed. Some reviewers praise the show's escapist charm, fashion-forward visuals, and the refreshing change of scenery offered by the Roman setting. Others find the storytelling repetitive and superficial, criticizing the series for being overly commercial and lacking depth. Despite the mixed reviews, long-time fans of "Emily In Paris" will likely find enjoyment in the familiar formula and the characters they have come to love.
Ultimately, Season 5 of "Emily in Paris" sees Emily navigating a tale of two cities, balancing her personal and professional aspirations. As she straddles both Rome and Paris, Emily's journey is one of self-discovery, forcing her to confront her desires and make choices that will shape her future. The season ends without definitive answers, leaving the door open for further exploration of Emily's life and relationships in potential future seasons.
