Rupert Everett Departs ‘Emily in Paris’ Amid Firing Claims—Actor Cites Impact on Mental Health

Rupert Everett, celebrated for his iconic performances and as a prominent figure in LGBTQ+ cinema, has announced he will not return to “Emily in Paris” after his season four appearance. Everett played Giorgio Barbieri, an Italian interior designer and friend of main character Sylvie, during a brief but memorable guest spot. In interviews, Everett shared that he was told by producers, “Next year we’ll speak,” but later found out he had been let go without further contact from the show’s creative team .

Speaking to Vanity Fair Italia, Everett candidly described his reaction to the news: “I waited for them to call me—but ultimately, it never came, and they just fired me. Show business is always very difficult, from the beginning to the end. When they write the screenplay, they think they want you—but then things change, and they lose your character. I don’t know why.” He went on to discuss the impact on his mental health, stating, “For me, it was a tragedy. I was in bed for two weeks because I couldn’t get over it” .

Everett’s openness about the emotional toll reflects a broader conversation within the LGBTQ+ community about workplace vulnerability, resilience, and the particular pressures faced by queer performers in the entertainment industry. His willingness to share his feelings publicly highlights the importance of mental health support and destigmatization, especially for high-profile individuals navigating public careers.

Shortly after his remarks made headlines, Everett sought to clarify the situation, issuing a statement to The Independent: “In reference to the recent articles about me and the Netflix series Emily in Paris, I would like to confirm that I was never fired from the show. I was talking to a group of acting students—in my shaky Italian—at a festival in the south of Italy, and it all got a little lost in translation!” .

This clarification underscores the potential for miscommunication, especially across language barriers and in high-profile international projects. While Everett’s initial comments captured the attention of fans and media outlets worldwide, his follow-up reaffirms that the complexities of television production and character arcs often go beyond straightforward decisions.

Rupert Everett’s career has long been a touchstone for LGBTQ+ representation in film and television. As one of the first openly gay actors to achieve mainstream success, Everett has consistently spoken about the challenges and triumphs of navigating Hollywood as an out performer. His participation in “Emily in Paris,” a show known for its diverse and queer-inclusive cast, was seen by many as a continuation of his advocacy for LGBTQ+ visibility in entertainment .

His experience with “Emily in Paris” also raises important questions about the representation of queer actors in prominent roles and the industry’s ongoing evolution. While the specifics of Everett’s departure remain somewhat ambiguous due to translation issues, the public’s reaction demonstrates a strong interest in ensuring fairness, transparency, and well-being for LGBTQ+ talent.

Fans and LGBTQ+ advocates have voiced support for Everett, emphasizing the need for compassion in creative industries known for their volatility. The widespread coverage of Everett’s story has sparked renewed dialogue about mental health, professional transitions, and how productions can better support all cast members, regardless of sexuality or gender identity.

As “Emily in Paris” moves forward with its fifth season, Everett’s legacy in both queer culture and on the global stage remains secure. His honesty about personal challenges, coupled with his clarification of the circumstances, serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusive storytelling—not only on screen but behind the scenes as well.