Fans of “Emily in Paris” are eagerly anticipating the return of the beloved series for its fifth season, which is set to premiere on December 18, 2025. The show has generated considerable buzz with the return of stars Lily Collins, Ashley Park, and Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, in addition to exciting new cast members and the recent release of an official teaser trailer.
One actor who has particularly captured attention is Lucas Bravo, who plays the charming French chef, Gabriel. Since the beginning of the series, Bravo’s character has been a central figure in the romantic dynamics of the show, particularly as Emily’s on-off boyfriend. However, his absence from the season five trailer has left fans questioning whether he will return, igniting a wave of speculation and concern among viewers.
Recent reports have revisited Bravo’s journey to securing his role in the series, revealing that he was initially overlooked due to the network’s desire for a more established actor. Reflecting on that moment, Bravo shared with PEOPLE that he was initially devastated by the news, opting to go on a hike in Corsica to process his disappointment. It was during this retreat that a fortuitous encounter led to a life-changing moment. A fellow hiker borrowed Bravo’s phone and informed him that he had received numerous messages about the show’s creators re-evaluating their decision.
Surrounded by nature, Bravo discovered that he had 40 text messages and 30 missed calls, indicating that the creators were interested in bringing him back for a different character. He was ultimately invited to audition as another love interest, which led to a chemistry read with Collins. The audition reportedly went exceptionally well, as Bravo noted, “Lily is very generous,” highlighting how easy it was to connect with her during their read.
Showrunner Darren Star has also spoken highly of Bravo, praising his natural charisma, humor, and undeniable chemistry with Collins. Star’s instinct to choose Bravo for Gabriel was confirmed during their rehearsals, where the pair’s on-screen connection shone through.
As “Emily in Paris” nears its return, fans are left wondering about the fate of Gabriel and the evolving storylines that accompany him. With the premiere date approaching, viewers can expect further updates as anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting season for the series.
