In an unexpected twist, Brigitte Macron, France's First Lady, has made a surprise appearance in the fourth season of the popular Netflix series "Emily in Paris." The show, which premiered its latest installment approximately one month ago, continues to captivate audiences with its blend of American and French cultures.
Lily Collins, who portrays the titular character Emily Cooper, shared insights about Macron's involvement. According to Collins, the First Lady expressed her admiration for the series during a meeting with the actress and the show's creator, Darren Star, several years ago. This encounter eventually led to Macron's cameo in the current season.
"She was so kind and warm and welcoming and she was so enthusiastic about the show. Having her on set was so fun, she improv-ed, we had such a great time together ... It was an honor to do that with her."
The 71-year-old First Lady, known for her background in literature and Latin education, portrays herself in one episode of the new season. Her appearance adds an authentic touch to the series, which has often been criticized for its stereotypical depiction of French culture.
"Emily in Paris," created by Darren Star of "Sex and the City" fame, debuted on Netflix in October 2020. The show follows the adventures of Emily Cooper, an American marketing executive navigating life and work in the French capital. Despite mixed reviews, the series has garnered a significant following and even received Golden Globe and Emmy nominations.
The involvement of Brigitte Macron, who has no official constitutional role as First Lady, demonstrates the show's impact on French popular culture. It also highlights the series' ability to blend fiction with real-world elements, potentially bridging the gap between its portrayal of Paris and the city's actual dynamics.
In a related development, the cast of "Emily in Paris" recently traveled to Rome for the premiere of the new episodes. This Italian connection is not merely promotional, as some scenes from the fourth season are set in the Eternal City, adding a new dimension to the show's exploration of European cultures.
As "Emily in Paris" continues to evolve, incorporating high-profile guests like Brigitte Macron and expanding its settings beyond Paris, it remains a significant player in Netflix's global content strategy. With the streaming giant boasting over 230 million subscribers worldwide, the series' international appeal is more crucial than ever.
The collaboration between Brigitte Macron and "Emily in Paris" serves as a unique intersection of politics, culture, and entertainment, potentially opening doors for similar crossovers in the future. As viewers eagerly await the remaining episodes of Season 4, the First Lady's cameo adds an extra layer of anticipation to the series' ongoing narrative.