Media Mogul Barry Diller Comes Out as Gay, Reflects on Unique Marriage with Diane Von Furstenberg
NEW YORK — In a heartfelt personal essay published Tuesday in New York Magazine, media titan Barry Diller, 83, publicly came out as gay, offering a rare and candid glimpse into his private life and longstanding relationship with fashion icon Diane Von Furstenberg.
Diller, a former CEO of Fox and Paramount and the architect behind the creation of the Fox network, acknowledged a lifetime of attraction to men. Yet he described Von Furstenberg, whom he married in 2001 after decades of friendship and romance, as “the one woman” in his life.
“While there have been a good many men in my life,” Diller wrote, “there has only ever been one woman. And she didn’t come into my life until I was 33 years old.”
From Glamorous Romance to Lifelong Bond
The power couple first met in 1974, launching a glamorous, high-profile relationship that played out between their residences in New York, Connecticut, Los Angeles, and Aspen. The pair broke up in the late ’70s, during which time Von Furstenberg had a romantic relationship with actor Richard Gere, while Gere was starring in the Diller-produced film American Gigolo.
Despite separations and persistent media speculation about Diller’s sexuality, the couple remained close. One of their most famous romantic gestures was when Diller gifted Von Furstenberg 29 diamonds in a Band-Aid box for her 29th birthday.
A Candid Revelation
For years, rumors about Diller’s sexual orientation circled social and media spheres. Many believed his marriage to Von Furstenberg was a way to silence gossip. In his new statement, Diller puts those rumors to rest with grace and honesty.
“I have always been gay. But I have also always loved Diane,” Diller shared. His comments underscore the complexity of love, sexuality, and partnership—challenging traditional norms while honoring the unique bond they share.
Legacy Beyond Labels
Diller remains a towering figure in the media and entertainment industry. He is the chairman of IAC, the conglomerate behind brands like Expedia and Vimeo, and a major cultural influencer. His willingness to be open at this stage in life is being hailed as a landmark moment for representation and authenticity within elite business circles.
Von Furstenberg, who has long been an icon of female empowerment and design, has yet to issue a public statement but has consistently spoken warmly about their enduring connection.
This revelation by Diller not only affirms his identity but also offers a modern portrait of love that transcends societal expectations, resonating deeply with a generation increasingly embracing fluidity and truth.
