At 83, Barry Diller, the iconic media mogul, stunned the world with a deeply personal revelation in his memoir, Who Knew, excerpted in New York Magazine on May 6, 2025. After a 24-year marriage to fashion legend Diane von Furstenberg, Diller came out as gay, describing their bond as a “unique and complete love.” This candid disclosure, paired with his storied career, paints a vivid picture of a man who has shaped entertainment and defied conventions. From co-founding Fox to steering IAC’s digital empire, Diller’s journey is as dynamic as today’s headlines. Let’s dive into his latest chapter and why it’s captivating audiences worldwide.
Barry Diller’s Memoir Shocks and Inspires
In Who Knew, Barry Diller addresses long-standing whispers about his sexuality with unflinching honesty. He writes, “Much has been written about us, whispered about us, wondered about us,” reflecting on his 50-year relationship with von Furstenberg. Married in 2001, their partnership has been a subject of fascination, blending professional synergy with personal devotion. Diller clarifies that von Furstenberg, whom he met in the mid-1970s, remains the only woman he’s ever loved, yet he embraces his identity as a gay man. This revelation, shared in a New York Magazine excerpt, sparked widespread discussion on X, with users like @judytgolf noting the “soul-baring” impact of his words.
Diller’s openness resonates in a world craving authenticity. His story isn’t just about coming out; it’s about redefining love and partnership. He and von Furstenberg, now 78, have navigated fame, power, and personal growth together, emerging as a model of unconventional commitment. Their story, detailed in the memoir, invites readers to rethink traditional narratives of marriage and identity.
Barry Diller’s Media Empire: A Legacy of Innovation
Beyond personal revelations, Barry Diller remains a titan in media and technology. As chairman and senior executive of IAC, he’s driving the company’s evolution. In January 2025, Diller reassumed leadership after CEO Joey Levin’s departure to helm Angi, a home services platform IAC spun off. Levin praised Diller’s ability to attract “brilliant minds,” underscoring his enduring influence. IAC’s portfolio, including Dotdash Meredith (publisher of People and Travel + Leisure), reflects Diller’s knack for spotting digital opportunities.
His career sparkles with milestones:
- 1960s: Started in the William Morris mailroom, quickly rising in Hollywood.
- 1970s: Invented the TV movie of the week at ABC and became Paramount Pictures’ CEO at 32.
- 1980s: Co-founded Fox, launching hits like The Simpsons.
- 1990s–Present: Built IAC into a digital powerhouse with brands like Tinder and Expedia.
Diller’s recent moves, like agreeing to add a new board member to IAC after activist pressure in April 2025, show he’s still navigating high-stakes corporate waters with finesse.
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Political and Social Influence
Diller’s voice extends beyond boardrooms. A vocal Democratic donor, he endorsed Kamala Harris in 2024, calling for a “repudiation” of Donald Trump, whom he labeled a “rotten person.” His sharp critique of billionaires backing Trump for economic gain—calling them “plutocrats” who “don’t need another nickel”—made headlines in October 2024. Diller’s political candor, paired with his memoir’s personal disclosures, paints him as a fearless commentator unafraid to challenge norms.
In March 2025, he backed Andrew Cuomo’s New York City mayoral bid, signaling his influence in shaping urban leadership. These actions highlight Diller’s role as a cultural and political force, amplifying his memoir’s impact.
Barry Diller and von Furstenberg: A Miami Dream
On the personal front, Diller and von Furstenberg continue to make waves. In April 2024, they purchased a $45 million waterfront lot in Miami Beach, a record-breaking deal signaling plans for a dream home. The 1.5-acre property on North Bay Road places them among elite neighbors like Barry Gibb. This move reflects their shared vision, blending glamour with strategic investment. As von Furstenberg’s wrap dress celebrates its 50th anniversary, their partnership remains a testament to resilience and reinvention.
Why Diller’s Story Matters Now
Diller’s memoir and coming out arrive at a pivotal moment. At 83, his courage to share his truth challenges ageism and stigma. His marriage to von Furstenberg, described as a “fascinating tour through show business and digital media” by Simon & Schuster, offers a blueprint for authentic relationships. The buzz on X, from @NYMag to @brianstelter, underscores the public’s hunger for his story. Diller’s ability to intertwine personal vulnerability with professional triumphs keeps readers hooked.
His memoir isn’t just a tell-all; it’s a reflection on a life that shaped modern media. From greenlighting Raiders of the Lost Ark to navigating IAC’s digital frontier, Diller’s legacy is unmatched. His candidness about love, identity, and power invites us to question conventions and embrace complexity. As he writes, “I welcome it being out there for others to judge, and hopefully enjoy.” So, grab Who Knew when it hits shelves this spring, and join the conversation about a man who’s still making history.