Diane Plese is a Canadian optometrist best known for her long marriage to businessman and TV personality Robert Herjavec, but she has always lived a quiet, private life away from fame. In 2026, people remain interested in her because she became well-known without ever seeking the spotlight, and her story includes a successful medical career, a decades-long marriage, a highly publicized divorce, and a life rebuilt with dignity and privacy. This article explores her full biography, including her early life, education, career, relationship with Robert Herjavec, their divorce and settlement, the lives of their three children, and how she lives today with calmness and independence.
Quick Bio: Diane Plese
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Diane Plese |
| Birth Year | 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Parkdale, Toronto, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Croatian-Canadian |
| Religion | Not publicly confirmed |
| Profession | Optometrist (former) |
| Famous For | Former wife of businessman and TV personality Robert Herjavec |
| Marital Status | Divorced (from Robert Herjavec in 2016) |
| Children | Three – Brendan, Skye, and Caprice |
| Residence (2026) | Toronto, Canada |
| Net Worth (Approx.) | Over $100 million |
| Known Personality Traits | Calm, private, disciplined, family-focused |
| Social Media Presence | None |
Early Life and Family Background
Diane Plese was born in 1959 in the Parkdale area of Toronto, Canada, to Croatian immigrant parents who had recently moved in search of a better and more stable future. Growing up in a household shaped by Croatian traditions, she learned the values of discipline, kindness, simplicity, and respect—qualities her parents carried with them from their homeland. Her childhood was peaceful and grounded, marked by strong family bonds and a quiet environment that encouraged learning. Those who knew her during her early years described her as polite, calm, and academically focused, preferring books, studies, and private routines over attention or social noise. Her Croatian roots shaped her worldview deeply, teaching her the importance of hard work, humility, and family loyalty, all of which later influenced her marriage and her approach to motherhood.
Education and Path Toward Optometry
From an early age, Diane showed a strong interest in academics, especially in subjects related to science and healthcare. During her school years, she was known for being a disciplined and focused student who worked hard to achieve her goals. After graduating from high school in the late 1970s, she chose a path in the medical field because she wanted a career where she could help people directly. Her interest in eye health led her to study optometry, a profession that combined medical knowledge with personal interaction. By the early 1980s, she had completed her optometry studies, trained professionally, and became a licensed optometrist in Canada. Her work ethic earned her a positive reputation early in her career, and she was admired for her professionalism, steady growth, and patient-centered approach.
Career as an Optometrist
Once she became a certified optometrist, Diane opened her own clinic in Toronto, where she built a loyal group of patients who appreciated her kind and gentle approach to eye care. She was known for being trustworthy, patient-focused, and calm, making her clinic a comfortable place for adults and children alike. Diane never wanted a flashy or public-facing career; instead, she preferred the stability and peaceful environment of medical practice, where she could help people quietly and consistently. After getting married and later becoming a mother, she chose to step back from full-time work to focus on raising her children and supporting her family. Even though she reduced her professional responsibilities, her medical background continued to shape her habits, teaching her the value of discipline, organization, and compassion in everyday life.
First Meeting And Relationship With Robert Herjavec
Diane met Robert Herjavec in 1988 when he visited her clinic for a routine eye appointment. Their first meeting was simple, but it sparked a connection almost immediately. Diane was drawn to Robert’s warm and enthusiastic personality, while Robert admired her gentle nature and calm presence. They quickly discovered they shared a cultural background—both came from Croatian families—which created a strong bond and helped them understand each other’s values. Their relationship developed naturally through conversations, shared interests, and deep cultural familiarity. What began as a doctor–patient encounter soon turned into meaningful companionship, and before long, their dating relationship moved forward with a sense of comfort and stability that felt right to both of them.
Who is Robert Herjavec?
Robert Herjavec is a Canadian businessman, investor, and television personality best known for appearing on the business shows Shark Tank and Dragons’ Den. Born in 1962 in Croatia and raised in Canada, he built his success in the technology and cybersecurity industry by founding companies such as BRAK Systems and later the Herjavec Group, one of North America’s leading cybersecurity firms. He is widely recognized for his entrepreneurial skills, motivational speaking, and investments in new businesses, making him one of the most familiar faces in the world of business entertainment.
Marriage to Robert Herjavec
In 1990, Diane and Robert were married in a Croatian church in Ontario, surrounded by family and close friends. Their wedding reflected their shared heritage, including cultural traditions that honored their parents and community. During the early years of their marriage, life was modest and grounded. Robert was still working hard to build his career, and Diane continued her work as an optometrist. They lived a simple life centered around teamwork, trust, and mutual support. Robert later became a successful businessman, but in those early years, Diane stood by him through financial challenges and career struggles. Their personalities complemented each other well—Robert brought energy and ambition, while Diane provided calmness, stability, and emotional balance. Their strong foundation helped them build a life filled with mutual respect and shared goals.
Diane Plese Family Life and Children
Over time, Diane and Robert welcomed three children: Brendan, Skye, and Caprice. Becoming a mother changed Diane’s life completely, and she chose to dedicate herself fully to raising her children. She created a warm, stable, and structured home environment where family values, education, and kindness were prioritized. As Robert’s career began to grow, the family moved into a beautiful Toronto home that later appeared on television shows such as MTV Cribs, giving the public a rare glimpse into their lifestyle.
Despite the increasing attention surrounding Robert’s professional success, Diane worked hard to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children. She continued to pass down Croatian traditions, teaching them the importance of humility, discipline, and cultural identity. Her calm nature helped keep the household grounded even as public visibility increased.
Shift in Lifestyle as Robert Became Famous
As Robert’s businesses expanded and he became a familiar face on television, especially through shows related to entrepreneurship and investment, the family’s lifestyle changed significantly. His schedule grew more demanding, filled with travel, media appearances, and public events. The shift brought more pressure into their home, affecting family routines and reducing the time the couple spent together. While fame provided financial comfort, it also introduced emotional distance and new challenges. Diane, who preferred privacy and stability, found herself navigating a life that suddenly involved public attention and constant activity. She continued protecting her children and keeping their upbringing grounded, but the differences in lifestyle and daily routines gradually created strain within the marriage. These subtle shifts eventually turned into deeper emotional gaps between Diane and Robert.
Diane Plese Marriage Challenges and Separation
Over the years, the increasing demands of Robert’s work made it difficult for him and Diane to stay connected the way they once had. The emotional distance grew, and the pressures of fame made their relationship feel different from the early days of their marriage. Diane remained dedicated to providing stability for the children, but the couple’s personal bond slowly weakened. In July 2014, after nearly 25 years together, they announced their separation. During this period, Diane spoke kindly and respectfully about Robert, describing him as a caring person despite the challenges they faced. Her dignified and calm approach reflected the same quiet strength she had shown throughout her life, even during the most difficult times.
Divorce Proceedings and Public Attention
In March 2015, Diane filed for divorce, and the process quickly drew public attention due to Robert’s status as a well-known television figure. The situation became more complicated when reports surfaced about Robert’s affair with actress Danielle Vasinova, adding emotional strain to an already difficult period. Both Diane and Robert struggled with the emotional impact of the separation, and Robert even shared that he faced a deep personal crisis during this time. The divorce took nearly a year to finalize and concluded in 2016. Throughout the entire process, Diane maintained her privacy and chose not to engage with the media, staying true to her reserved and dignified personality.
Divorce Settlement Details
Since Diane and Robert did not have a prenuptial agreement, the court carefully reviewed their financial history and assets to ensure a fair outcome. Diane received a substantial settlement, including a $25 million lump sum, an additional $2.5 million equalization payment, and monthly spousal support of $125,000, which continued until it ended in 2021. She was also awarded ownership of two major properties: the couple’s Florida home and their ski chalet in Caledon. Canadian family law focuses on fairness rather than splitting everything exactly in half, but the settlement reflected the long duration of their marriage and the contributions Diane made as a full-time mother and partner. The financial outcome allowed her to move forward with long-term security and comfort, enabling her to maintain a peaceful life.
Diane Plese’s Life After Divorce
Following the divorce, Diane chose to withdraw completely from public life. She does not use social media and rarely appears in public, preferring a calm and private routine in Toronto. With a net worth exceeding $100 million, she enjoys a comfortable and peaceful lifestyle focused on her children, close family, and personal well-being. Diane values simplicity, privacy, and emotional peace, and she has rebuilt her life with quiet strength. Her story after the divorce reflects her lifelong preference for dignity, independence, and staying true to her personality rather than seeking attention or recognition.
Robert Herjavec’s New Family and Life
After the divorce, Robert met Australian dancer Kym Johnson while competing on Dancing with the Stars. Their connection was quick and genuine, and they developed a romantic relationship that led to their marriage in 2016. Their partnership brought new joy and a fresh start for Robert.
In 2018, Robert and Kym welcomed twins, Haven and Hudson, beginning a new chapter in their family life. They currently live in Hidden Hills, California, where Kym often shares glimpses of their home and family moments. Despite moving forward with a new family, Robert maintains positive co-parenting relationships, especially with his older children with Diane.
Diane Plese’s Legacy and Public Perception
Diane remains a subject of public curiosity because she became known without ever seeking fame. Her life story reflects dignity, resilience, and quiet strength—qualities that many people admire. She handled fame, marriage challenges, and a high-profile divorce with grace, choosing peace over publicity. Her identity goes far beyond being someone’s former spouse; she is a dedicated mother, a skilled former optometrist, and a woman who has lived according to her values. Her life resonates with those who appreciate privacy, emotional strength, and the ability to rebuild after life changes.
Conclusion
Diane Plese’s life story shows a woman of strength, calmness, and deep family values. From her early upbringing in a Croatian household to her successful medical career, long marriage, and eventual divorce, she has remained grounded and true to herself. Her journey highlights resilience, dignity, and the power of choosing a quieter path in a world full of noise. Even in 2026, her life continues to inspire people because she represents grace in difficult moments, dedication as a mother, and the quiet confidence to live life on her own terms.
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old is Diane Plese?
Diane Plese was born in 1959, which makes her 67 years old as of 2026. She was raised in Toronto’s Parkdale neighborhood by Croatian immigrant parents. While her exact birthdate is not publicly known, her age is widely reported.
2. What is Diane Plese’s profession?
Diane Plese is a trained optometrist who worked for many years in Toronto. She was known for her gentle personality, patient care, and strong medical ethics. After becoming a mother, she stepped away from full-time practice to focus on her family.
3. How did Diane Plese meet Robert Herjavec?
Diane met Robert Herjavec in 1988 when he visited her clinic for an eye appointment. Their shared Croatian background helped them connect quickly. Their relationship grew naturally and soon led to dating and marriage.
4. When did Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec get married?
They married in 1990 at a Croatian church in Ontario, surrounded by family and friends. Their wedding honored their cultural traditions and values. At the time, their life together was simple and far from the fame and wealth that came later.
5. Why did Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec divorce?
The couple separated in 2014 after growing emotional distance caused by changes in lifestyle, fame, and stress. Reports also claimed that Robert had an affair with actress Danielle Vasinova, adding difficulty to the situation. Their divorce was finalized in 2016.
6. What did Diane Plese receive in the divorce settlement?
Diane received a large financial settlement that included $25 million, a $2.5 million equalization payment, and monthly support of $125,000 until 2021. She also received the couple’s Florida home and their ski chalet in Caledon. These assets provided lasting financial security.
7. Where is Diane Plese now, and what is her life like?
Diane lives a private and peaceful life in Toronto, far away from media attention. She does not use social media and rarely appears publicly. With a secure net worth and close family ties, she lives quietly and focuses on her own well-being.
8. How many children does Diane Plese have?
Diane and Robert have three children: Brendan, Skye, and Caprice. All three have pursued strong academic and professional paths in business, finance, and consulting. Like their mother, they prefer to keep their personal lives private.
