Barry Diller Diane von: In his memoir Who Knew, Diller addresses speculation on his sexuality and long-term relationship with Diane von Furstenberg.
Diller, 83, who serves as the chairman of IAC and Expedia Group, revealed that he had only been interested in men until meeting von Furstenberg at the age of 33. Their romance began more than two decades ago, eventually leading to their marriage in 2001.
A Chance Encounter That Sparked a Lifelong Love
Diller recounts how, on their first meeting, von Furstenberg was dismissive. However, a second meeting, years later at a dinner party for a mutual friend, changed everything. Diller describes being “bathed in such attention and cozy warmth,” feeling an instant connection with the designer.
As Diller recalls, “There was a glow around us that was setting off sparks, accurately described by the French as a coup de foudre,” adding, “We wound around each other, making out like teenagers, something I hadn’t done with a female since I was 16 years old.”
This unexpected connection left Diller amazed, and he quickly accepted that this was more than just a fleeting attraction.
Navigating a Life of Public Speculation
Before meeting von Furstenberg, Diller had never publicly come out, but he made a vow to live without hypocrisy. “I wouldn’t do a single thing to make anyone believe I was living a heterosexual life,” he wrote. Many people speculated about Diller’s sexual orientation as a result of their friendship, but Diller seemed unconcerned.
When it became evident to everyone that we couldn’t keep our hands off one another, a lot of the conjecture died down, Diller said. Despite difficulties in their relationship, such as a temporary breakup brought on by von Furstenberg’s liaison with actor Richard Gere, the pair finally found love again. They married in 2001.
Love Beyond Labels
Diller emphasizes that, while he may have loved men in the past, his affection for von Furstenberg was never a conflict with his sexuality. He writes, “Yes, I also liked guys, but that was not a conflict with my love for Diane.” He also reflects on the evolving nature of sexuality today, saying, “Sexual identities are much more fluid and natural…without all those rigidly defined lanes of the last century.”
Diller’s memoir delves into his life with von Furstenberg, offering a personal perspective on their relationship, and the enduring passion that has defined their bond for decades. For Diller, the labels others might place on him are irrelevant. “We know, our family knows, and our friends know. The rest is blather,” he writes.
Source: NBC News
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