In his memoir “Who Knew,” Barry Diller, the 83-year-old chairman of IAC and Expedia Group, addresses longstanding speculation about his sexuality and his relationship with fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg. Diller reveals that prior to meeting von Furstenberg at age 33, he had exclusively been interested in men. Their first encounter left him dismissed, but at a subsequent dinner party, they shared a connection that led to an intense romantic relationship. He describes the moment as an electrifying experience, likening it to “coup de foudre” or love at first sight.
Diller acknowledges that he had never publicly identified his sexuality before von Furstenberg, pledging to avoid hypocrisy about his preferences. Their coupling sparked public curiosity, as he was a prominent figure in Hollywood, while von Furstenberg was a noted designer. Speculation regarding his sexual orientation arose, and people were surprised to see him with a woman, although much of it subsided once their affection was apparent.
Despite their deep passion, their relationship faced challenges, including von Furstenberg’s affair with Richard Gere, leading to their separation in 1981. However, they rekindled their romance a decade later and married in 2001. Diller expresses that their bond extends beyond friendship, depicting it as a passionate connection that coexists with his attraction to men.
He refrains from labeling his sexuality, noting a more fluid understanding of sexual identities compared to the past. Diller emphasizes that his relationship with von Furstenberg is fundamental to his life, noting that outside opinions are often amusing to them.
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