When it comes to high-profile divorces and intriguing personal stories, Diane Plese has captured public attention as the former wife of Robert Herjavec, the charismatic businessman and star of Shark Tank.
But Diane’s story is more than just her connection to a celebrity—she’s an accomplished professional and a private individual with her own remarkable journey. Let’s dive into the life of Diane Plese and uncover everything you need to know.
Early Life and Background
Diane Plese was born in 1959 in Toronto, Canada. Raised in a tight-knit family, Diane’s parents were Croatian immigrants who instilled strong values of education, hard work, and community. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Diane developed a deep appreciation for her heritage and the opportunities provided by her Canadian upbringing.
After excelling in her studies, Diane pursued a career in optometry, a field that matched her passion for helping others. She graduated from an esteemed optometry program in Canada and quickly established herself as a respected optometrist.
Interesting Childhood Fact
Though Diane has always been known for her poise and professionalism, friends from her early years recall her adventurous spirit and love for the arts. She participated in local theater productions as a teenager, showcasing her creative side before committing to a medical career.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Diane Plese’s career as an optometrist began in the 1980s. She built a thriving practice in Toronto, where she became known for her attentive care and expertise. Her dedication to her patients earned her a loyal clientele and professional respect within the medical community.
While Diane’s career was flourishing, her personal life took an unexpected turn when she met Robert Herjavec during an eye exam in the late 1980s. This chance encounter would eventually lead to marriage and years in the public spotlight.
Memorable Career Moments
Though Diane kept her professional life largely private, her work as an optometrist remained a cornerstone of her identity. Balancing her career with her roles as a wife and mother showcased her ability to manage multiple responsibilities with grace.
Personal Life
Diane Plese married Robert Herjavec in 1990, and the couple enjoyed a long marriage spanning over two decades. Together, they raised three children: two daughters, Caprice and Skye, and a son, Brendan. Despite her husband’s rising fame and wealth, Diane remained grounded, prioritizing her family and privacy.
Defining Characteristics
Diane’s friends and family often describe her as compassionate, intelligent, and deeply devoted to her loved ones. She’s also known for her resilience, especially in navigating the challenges of public scrutiny during her divorce from Robert Herjavec.
Philanthropy
Diane and Robert shared a commitment to philanthropy during their marriage, supporting various charities and community initiatives. Although Diane’s current charitable efforts are not publicly documented, her contributions during their time together reflected her caring nature.
Age and Physical Attributes
As of 2025, Diane Plese is 66 years old. She has always maintained an elegant and understated presence, reflecting her professionalism and poise. While her exact height and weight are not publicly documented, Diane’s dignified appearance and friendly demeanor have left a lasting impression on those who know her.
Siblings
Diane grew up with two siblings, both of whom pursued successful careers in their respective fields. Her close relationship with her family has been a consistent source of support throughout her life.
Spouse and Children
Diane’s marriage to Robert Herjavec was a defining chapter in her life. Together, they built a family and shared a luxurious lifestyle, thanks to Robert’s success in technology and investments. Following their divorce in 2016, Diane has kept her personal life private, focusing on her children and her own interests.
Children:
- Caprice Herjavec: The eldest daughter, Caprice, is a private individual who has stayed out of the limelight.
- Skye Herjavec: Known for her entrepreneurial spirit, Skye has followed in her father’s footsteps by pursuing business ventures.
- Brendan Herjavec: The youngest of the three, Brendan is actively involved in tech and finance, reflecting his father’s influence.
Divorce from Robert Herjavec
Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec’s marriage came to an end in 2014 after 24 years together. The divorce was finalized in 2016 and was widely covered in the media due to Robert’s high-profile status. While the exact reasons for their separation remain private, it was reported that irreconcilable differences were a key factor.
The divorce proceedings included a substantial financial settlement. At the time, Robert Herjavec’s net worth was estimated to be around $200 million, and Diane’s settlement reportedly included a significant portion of his wealth. Despite the emotional and financial challenges of their separation, both Diane and Robert have expressed a desire to move forward amicably for the sake of their family.
Post-Divorce Life
Following the divorce, Diane has maintained a low profile, focusing on her personal well-being and her role as a mother. Unlike Robert, who remarried in 2016 to professional dancer Kym Johnson, Diane has chosen to keep her private life out of the public eye.
Net Worth
Diane Plese’s financial standing became a topic of public interest during her divorce from Robert Herjavec. The settlement reportedly included a significant portion of Robert’s fortune, estimated at $200 million at the time. While the exact amount Diane received remains undisclosed, it’s believed to be substantial enough to ensure her financial security.
Aside from her settlement, Diane’s career as an optometrist likely contributed to her wealth. Though she no longer practices, her years in the medical field were marked by success and stability.
Conclusion
Diane Plese may be best known as the former wife of Robert Herjavec, but her story is one of resilience, professionalism, and devotion to family. From her humble beginnings as the daughter of Croatian immigrants to her career as a respected optometrist, Diane has lived a life marked by grace and strength.
Today, Diane remains a private individual who values her family and personal well-being. Her journey serves as a reminder that life’s challenges can be met with dignity and resilience, inspiring those around her to do the same. Whether as a professional, a mother, or a public figure, Diane Plese’s legacy is one of quiet strength and enduring grace.
