Who Is Diane Plese? Inside the Life, Career, and Quiet Strength of Robert Herjavec’s Former Wife

In the glittering world of Hollywood, where stars and their legacies illuminate the sky, some stories capture our attention not because they are loud, but because they are quietly compelling. One such story is that of Diane Plese, a woman whose life unexpectedly entered the public spotlight due to her long-term marriage to entrepreneur and television personality Robert Herjavec. Yet, beyond her connection to fame, Diane Plese stands out as a private, accomplished individual with her own journey, values, and successes.

This article explores who Diane Plese truly is—her background, career, family life, and the narrative behind her years with one of television’s most recognizable business figures. Thoughtful, human-centered, and naturally written, the goal is to help readers understand the woman behind the name without sensationalism or speculation.

Quick Bio

Fact	Details
Full Name	Diane Plese
Birth Year	1959
Age	Mid-60s
Birthplace	Toronto, Canada
Nationality	Canadian
Ethnic Background	Croatian descent
Profession	Optometrist
Education	Completed medical studies in Canada
Famous For	Marriage to entrepreneur Robert Herjavec
Years Married	1990–2016
Children	Three
Public Presence	Generally private, minimal media engagement
Current Life	Focused on family and private pursuits

Early Life and Roots

Before the fame, before the television cameras, and before her name appeared in countless headlines, Diane Plese began life far from the world of celebrity culture. She was born to Croatian immigrant parents who settled in Canada in search of opportunity and stability. Growing up in Toronto, she was raised with values that many immigrant families hold dear—discipline, humility, respect, and the importance of education.

These roots shaped much of who Diane Plese would become. Friends and acquaintances often noted her calm demeanor, sense of responsibility, and natural empathy. These traits became foundational as she pursued a profession grounded in care and trust.

Education and Career as an Optometrist

Long before she became known as Robert Herjavec’s wife, Diane Plese built a meaningful career of her own. Choosing optometry allowed her to combine scientific curiosity with a desire to help people. As an eye doctor, she earned a reputation for professionalism, compassion, and reliability.

Patients described her as thorough and approachable, someone who genuinely listened. Optometry is not a flashy field, nor one that typically leads to public recognition—but for Diane Plese, it was a vocation that reflected her personality. The work required patience, technical skill, and a steady presence—all qualities she embodied naturally.

Even after her marriage brought her into social circles filled with entrepreneurs and public figures, she continued to value her independence and the identity she built through her medical career. The success of Diane Plese was not tied to fame but to personal dedication.

How She Met Robert Herjavec

The story of how Diane Plese met Robert Herjavec sounds almost cinematic in its simplicity. He first walked into her office as a patient. Their conversation flowed easily, their personalities clicked, and what began as a routine appointment soon grew into something more meaningful.

They married in 1990, long before Robert became a household name through shows like Shark Tank and Dragons’ Den. In those early years, they lived a relatively quiet life, working hard and building a family together. Their relationship was rooted in mutual respect and shared values, not the glamour or attention that would eventually come later.

Family Life and Motherhood

Together, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec welcomed three children. Throughout their upbringing, Diane remained deeply dedicated to providing a stable, nurturing environment. Friends of the family often emphasized her devotion to motherhood—attending school events, maintaining routines, and ensuring that the children grew up grounded despite their father’s growing success.

As Robert’s businesses expanded, and television opportunities began to reshape their public lives, Diane Plese remained the calming center of the household. She was known for her steadiness, which helped anchor the family during periods of change and increased visibility.

Married to a Rising Business Icon

When the couple first married, Robert Herjavec was an ambitious entrepreneur still building his path. As his ventures succeeded, he became increasingly known in business circles. Eventually, television transformed him into a widely recognized personality.

With fame came attention, scrutiny, and a lifestyle far different from the one Diane Plese had grown up with. Yet, she handled the transition with grace, continuing to maintain the privacy and dignity that defined her character. Unlike many spouses of public figures, she rarely appeared in media and avoided the spotlight whenever possible.

During interviews, Robert occasionally mentioned her support and the fundamental role she played in his life. Those acknowledgments reflected the partnership they once shared quietly behind the scenes long before cameras were pointed their way.

Their Separation and Divorce

After more than two decades together, the marriage between Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec came to an emotional and widely reported end. Their separation in 2014 and subsequent divorce in 2016 surprised many who had followed Robert’s public career.

Despite the headlines, Diane Plese chose not to make public statements or engage in interviews. She remained deeply private, even as news outlets speculated on the details of their divorce. Maintaining her silence was not a sign of weakness but rather a commitment to her values. She focused on her children and her own well-being instead of engaging in public narratives.

The settlement became a topic of discussion, as high-profile divorces often do, but once again, Diane did not participate in the public commentary. Her silence preserved her dignity and allowed her to move forward with her life without the noise of external opinions.

Life After the Public Spotlight

Today, Diane Plese continues to live a low-profile, family-centered life. She prefers privacy over publicity and prioritizes meaningful relationships over fame. While her ex-husband remains in the public eye through television and entrepreneurship, Diane has created a space where she can live authentically and without performance.

Her story is a reminder that people connected to fame are still individuals with their own paths, ambitions, and identities. Diane Plese does not seek attention, yet her journey resonates with many who value humility, resilience, and quiet strength.

What Makes Diane Plese’s Story Compelling?

The fascination with Diane Plese isn’t due to scandal or spectacle. Instead, it comes from her contrast to the environment she was pulled into.

She is the embodiment of a grounded life touched by fame, yet not defined by it. Her experiences showcase:

• The challenges of balancing personal values with public exposure
• The strength required to maintain privacy in a media-driven world
• The quiet dignity that can exist even when life becomes intensely visible

In many ways, Diane Plese symbolizes the unspoken stories of individuals connected to high-profile personalities—those who live behind the scenes but whose lives are just as meaningful and full.

Final Thoughts

The story of Diane Plese is not one of celebrity ambition but of authenticity. Her life reflects the quiet strength of a woman who built her own career, raised a family with dedication, navigated sudden public attention with composure, and ultimately returned to the privacy she always valued.

In a world fascinated by fame, Diane’s narrative is refreshing—a reminder that the most meaningful stories are often the ones lived away from the spotlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Diane Plese?

Diane Plese is a Canadian optometrist best known as the former wife of entrepreneur and television personality Robert Herjavec. She is recognized for her private nature, dedication to her career, and decades-long role as a supportive partner and mother.

What does Diane Plese do for a living?

She is an optometrist by profession and built a respected medical career long before becoming associated with public figures.

How did Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec meet?

They first met when Robert visited her office as a patient. Their connection grew from that initial meeting.

How many children does Diane Plese have?

Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec share three children together.

Why did they divorce?

While the public followed their separation, neither party shared extensive details. Diane Plesechose to keep the matter private.