Barry Diller, the influential businessman and media executive, is ready to share his story with the world through his upcoming memoir, “Who Knew,” set to release next week. At 83, Diller reflects on his life and career, expressing a newfound openness that he previously shunned due to fear of judgment and exposure.
In a recent interview, Diller recalls his childhood realization of his sexuality, which came with overwhelming feelings of condemnation. He candidly shares that, at a young age, he visited the library to find literature on homosexuality, only to confront a series of negative portrayals that left him feeling like a “condemned person.” Diller’s journey through life was marked by an internal struggle between his public persona as a daring media leader and his personal battles with identity and secrecy.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has been a trailblazer. Diller created the successful movie of the week format at ABC and later shaped the television landscape with miniseries like “Roots,” which captivated audiences nationwide. His tenure at Paramount Pictures saw him greenlight influential films such as “Saturday Night Fever.” Despite his remarkable achievements, Diller admits to feeling like an outsider, particularly when he became chairman of Paramount, as he grappled with elements of self-doubt and societal expectations.
His memoir delves into personal relationships, notably with fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg, whom he describes as the cornerstone of his life. Diller acknowledges the complexities of his sexuality, believing that love for both men and women is not mutually exclusive, a notion he underscores in his writing. He aims not just to recount his experiences but to provide a sense of connection and understanding.
In addition to his media accomplishments, Diller’s philanthropic efforts with von Furstenberg contributed significantly to the creation of the High Line in New York City, which he views as a gift of joy to the public. Reflecting on his career and personal growth, Diller recognizes the importance of honesty and the value of simply sharing a good story as he embarks on this new chapter.
As he embraces this vulnerability at this stage of his life, Diller offers hope that individuals can find happiness and connection, reaffirming that personal truth can coexist with public success. His work illustrates the potential for transformation—both in self-perception and in the impact one can have on society.