Emily in Paris Season 2: New Romance in a World Without COVID

Emily in Paris isn’t short of romance, alright, but in Season 2, the quirky American sparks a new one.

In a recent interview, Lily Collins hinted at the status of Emily's relationship with Gabriel (Lucas Bravo). In addition, the actress shared details about Emily's new love interest in Season 2, Alfie. Here's how Emily's romances might pan out in the upcoming season.

Emily in Paris Season 2's Lily Collins Teases a New Romance

In Season 2 of Emily in Paris, Lucien Laviscount plays Emily's potential love interest Alfie.

"It's important to Emily that she's able to start to see romance elsewhere," Collins teased to Glamour, adding that Emily and Alfie's romance begins in a "fun and unexpected" way.

Things are getting better for Emily at the end of Season 1, as she has managed to avoid being dismissed by Savoir's formidable Sylvie (Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu). Emily is riding high after a successful fashion stunt for Pierre Cadault (Jean-Christophe Bouvet) and then she learns Gabriel and Camille (Camille Razat) have broken up over his decision to move to Normandy.

But it's unclear whether Gabriel and Camille are officially over. Things become tricky as Antoine (William Abadie) agrees to finance Gabriel's restaurant right after a beautiful night together. Emily is left confused at the conclusion of Season 1 of Emily in Paris.

Love in the Time Without COVID?

Collins discussed the upcoming second season with Variety, and how, unlike other dramas set in the present day, Emily in Paris Season 2 will overlook the pandemic. The 32-year-old actress took the time to clarify why the show's creators chose not to address the pandemic in the show, saying:

“Season 1 allowed us an escapism when it came out that it felt it was something that needed to continue — not addressing it because it brings a sense of escapism and joy and laughter in a time that we need it the most.”

The decision is in keeping with the show's values and distinguishes it from many of the other shows that have adapted to include the pandemic in their plotlines. Shows like Grey's Anatomy and This Is Us, for example, featured COVID-19 and the global pandemic in storylines, most likely to add authenticity.

While it is usual for many shows to reflect current events, it is also common for some films and television shows to disregard current events and remain within their own universes, as Emily in Paris has chosen to do.

Emily in Paris Season 2 will be released on Netflix on Dec. 22.