Excitement is building surrounding the upcoming fifth season of “Emily in Paris,” with stars Lily Collins, Ashley Park, and Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu set to return. As fans eagerly await the new episodes, the conversation has been dominated by Lucas Bravo, who plays French chef Gabriel, Emily’s on-again, off-again boyfriend. His absence from the recently released season five trailer has sparked rumors and speculation about his future on the show.
Bravo has been a fan favorite since the first season, but reports have emerged detailing the challenges he faced during the casting process. Initially, the creators were hesitant to cast Bravo due to his relatively low profile at the time. They sought a more established name, leading to his initial exclusion from consideration. Reflecting on that period, Bravo described using the disappointment as an opportunity for self-reflection, opting for a solo hike in Corsica to disconnect and clear his mind.
While on this retreat, a serendipitous event changed everything for Bravo. A fellow hiker borrowed his phone to seek a signal and informed him that his phone had been inundated with messages. Upon checking, Bravo discovered a flood of 40 text messages and 30 missed calls, indicating that show creators had reversed their initial decision. Although the role of Gabriel had already been filled, Bravo was invited to audition for another character, which led to a chemistry read with Collins. The session proved to be a pivotal moment; the chemistry between the two was undeniable, earning him the role originally intended for someone else.
Showrunner Darren Star praised Bravo’s natural charisma and humor, expressing confidence in his instincts regarding casting. “When you dive into her eyes, it’s really easy to be connected to her,” Bravo noted, highlighting the rapport he shares with Collins. As the release date of December 18, 2025, approaches, fans remain hopeful that Bravo’s character will play a significant role in the upcoming season, eager to see how the storyline unfolds without clear indications of his involvement. The buzz around “Emily in Paris” continues to grow, with updates expected as the premiere date nears.
