Lucas Bravo has become synonymous with Gabriel, the charming Parisian chef and love interest in Netflix’s hit romantic comedy Emily in Paris. But the French actor says he almost never got the part.
In interviews reflecting on his journey to season 5, Bravo detailed a winding audition process, studio hesitation, and last-minute advocacy that ultimately secured the role. His story offers rare insight into the gamble behind casting decisions and the fragility of breakout opportunities.
Studio Initially Passed on Bravo for Lack of Experience
When Bravo first auditioned for Gabriel in 2020, he made it through multiple callbacks before learning that Paramount, the studio behind the series, was reluctant to take a chance on a little-known actor without major credits.
Bravo recalled losing the role and traveling to Corsica to disconnect. With limited cell service, he was unreachable — a circumstance that almost cost him a career-changing second chance.
A Sudden Turn, New Read, and 10 Minutes of Goat Cheese Talk
When he regained service, Bravo discovered dozens of missed messages from the casting team. The actor told PEOPLE that the original Gabriel had signed his contract and was preparing to film, but producers wanted Bravo to read for a different love interest.
During that audition, he read Gabriel’s lines again and participated in a chemistry read with star Lily Collins. Nervous, he unintentionally rambled about goat cheese for 10 minutes — something he assumed doomed him. Instead, the audition strengthened his case.
“Lily is very generous,” Bravo said. “When you dive into her eyes, it’s really easy to be connected to her.”
Darren Star “Fought” for Bravo’s Casting
Emily in Paris creator Darren Star ultimately pushed back against the studio, according to Bravo. He believed Bravo was the right choice for Gabriel from the start and advocated for his casting despite resistance. Within a day of the chemistry test, Bravo received the call confirming he landed the part.
Bravo later shared that he was a longtime admirer of Star’s work and was eager for the opportunity to help shape a Paris-set series for a global audience.
Growing Apart From Gabriel—and Eventually Returning
By season 4, Bravo admitted feeling frustrated with the character’s arc. In 2024, he told IndieWire that Gabriel had been “slowly turned into guacamole,” saying he no longer recognized the version he was being asked to portray. The actor suggested he might not return after his contract expired at the end of season 4.
However, Bravo’s participation in season 5 was confirmed in April 2025. Speaking to Variety ahead of the December premiere, he said the new season returns Gabriel to a lighter, more proactive character closer to his season 1 roots.
“I think all of us wanted to bring back a fun Gabriel,” Bravo said. “I hope we addressed the demand.”
Through stalled negotiations, creative fatigue and casting uncertainty, Bravo’s journey mirrors the complex inner workings of modern TV production — and how one performance can reframe a global series.
