Diane Plese is a well-known Canadian optometrist and public figure who rose to fame after her marriage to businessman and television personality Robert Herjavec. Though she prefers a private life, her intelligence, grace, and professional success have kept her in the public eye. This article explores Diane Plese’s life, from her early background and education to her marriage, career, and life after divorce.
Diane Plese Biography Table
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Diane Plese |
| Date of Birth | 1959 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 66 years |
| Place of Birth | Toronto, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Croatian descent |
| Profession | Optometrist |
| Famous For | Ex-wife of Robert Herjavec |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Robert Herjavec |
| Children | Three (two daughters, one son) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $25 million |
Early Life and Education of Diane Plese
Diane Plese was born in Toronto, Canada, to Croatian immigrant parents who valued education and hard work. Growing up in a humble household, Diane displayed academic excellence from a young age. Her parents encouraged her to pursue higher education, leading her to study optometry — a field that combines science and compassion.
Her childhood was defined by a strong sense of community and family, qualities that would later reflect in her career and personal life. Diane Plese’s commitment to helping people with their vision problems made her one of the respected professionals in her field.
Career as an Optometrist
Before gaining public attention through her marriage, Diane Plese built a solid career as a practicing optometrist in Canada. She worked in private clinics and earned a reputation for her professionalism, patience, and care for her patients.
Her medical background and calm personality set her apart in a competitive field. While her husband, Robert Herjavec, pursued his entrepreneurial ventures, Diane maintained her practice quietly, preferring to stay out of the media spotlight.
Her dedication to her profession demonstrates that her success was not merely tied to her marriage but also to her own achievements.
Marriage to Robert Herjavec
Diane Plese met Robert Herjavec in the 1980s when he visited her clinic for an eye appointment. Their connection was instant, and they soon began dating. In 1990, they tied the knot in a private ceremony attended by family and close friends.
Robert Herjavec, an immigrant from Croatia, was still building his career in business at the time. The couple shared a deep cultural connection and mutual respect for each other’s professional ambitions. Diane supported Robert through the early struggles of his career, which eventually led to his success as a multimillionaire entrepreneur and television star.
Their marriage spanned more than two decades and produced three children. Together, they created a comfortable life, balancing fame, family, and fortune.
Family Life and Children
Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec are parents to three children: two daughters, Caprice and Skye, and a son, Brendan. The couple prioritized their children’s privacy, keeping them away from the limelight.
As a mother, Diane Plese is known for her nurturing nature and strong values. Even after the divorce, she maintained a close relationship with her children, focusing on their well-being and education.
Her ability to balance her career with motherhood reflects her strong character and commitment to her family’s happiness.
Divorce and Settlement
After more than 24 years of marriage, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec separated in 2014. The divorce was finalized in 2016, shocking many fans who viewed them as a power couple.
While neither party publicly revealed the reasons for their separation, media reports suggested growing emotional distance. Despite the personal heartbreak, Diane handled the situation with dignity and grace, avoiding public controversy or negative comments.
The divorce settlement was among the most expensive in Canada at the time. Reports estimate that Diane Plese received around $25 million as part of the settlement, reflecting her contribution to their shared wealth and life together.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce, Diane Plese stepped away from the media spotlight. She chose a private and peaceful life, focusing on her career and family. Unlike many ex-spouses of celebrities, she refrained from using her ex-husband’s fame to promote herself publicly.
Her quiet resilience and independence made her an inspiring figure for women who face challenges after divorce. Diane continued to live in Toronto, maintaining her professional practice as an optometrist and enjoying time with her children.
Relationship with Robert Herjavec After Divorce
Despite their separation, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec have remained respectful of each other. They co-parent their children effectively and occasionally appear together at family events.
Robert later married his Dancing with the Stars partner, Kym Johnson, in 2016, with whom he has twins. However, Diane chose not to remarry, preferring to focus on her personal growth and professional life.
Her maturity in handling post-divorce life is often admired by fans and media alike, showcasing her emotional strength and sense of self-respect.
Diane Plese Net Worth
Diane Plese’s estimated net worth is around $25 million, largely stemming from her divorce settlement and successful career in optometry. Although not as wealthy as her ex-husband, whose net worth exceeds $200 million, Diane has achieved financial stability through both her profession and her share of marital assets.
She lives a comfortable life in Toronto and reportedly owns real estate properties. Unlike many celebrities, Diane manages her wealth discreetly and avoids lavish public appearances.
Diane Plese’s Personality and Public Image
Diane Plese is known for her poise, intelligence, and humility. Even after her marriage to a famous television personality, she remained true to herself, prioritizing family and work over fame. Her soft-spoken and professional demeanor made her well-respected in both her field and social circles.
Media outlets often describe her as the “graceful ex-wife” of Robert Herjavec — someone who handled success and heartbreak with elegance. Her approach to privacy sets her apart from the typical celebrity lifestyle.
Comparison: Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec
| Aspect | Diane Plese | Robert Herjavec |
| Profession | Optometrist | Entrepreneur, TV personality |
| Nationality | Canadian | Canadian |
| Fame Source | Marriage to Robert Herjavec | Shark Tank, business success |
| Net Worth | ~$25 million | ~$200 million |
| Marital Status | Divorced | Married to Kym Johnson |
| Public Personality | Private, composed | Outgoing, media-friendly |
This comparison shows that while Robert is known for his business empire and media presence, Diane is celebrated for her professionalism and grounded nature.
Philanthropy and Interests
Although not very active in the public eye, Diane Plese has been involved in several charitable initiatives, particularly in healthcare and community welfare. Her compassion extends beyond her clinic as she quietly supports local health organizations in Canada.
She is also passionate about reading, nature, and family activities. Those close to her describe her as someone who values simplicity and kindness over material wealth.
Current Life and Where She Is Now
As of 2025, Diane Plese continues to live in Toronto, focusing on her optometry career and maintaining a close bond with her children. She rarely appears in public or on social media, choosing instead a life of peace and purpose.
Her story serves as a reminder that success doesn’t always come from fame — it can also be found in resilience, professionalism, and integrity.
Conclusion
Diane Plese is much more than just the ex-wife of Robert Herjavec — she is a dedicated professional, a caring mother, and an independent woman. Her journey reflects the power of perseverance and dignity, even when faced with personal challenges. From her early life to her successful career and life after divorce, Diane Plese’s story continues to inspire those who value grace, intelligence, and inner strength.
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FAQs About Diane Plese
A1: Diane Plese is a Canadian optometrist best known as the former wife of Shark Tank investor Robert Herjavec.
A2: She is a professional optometrist practicing in Toronto, Canada.
A3: Her estimated net worth is around $25 million, largely from her optometry career and divorce settlement.
A4: The couple separated in 2014, and their divorce was finalized in 2016.
A5: Yes, Diane Plese has three children — two daughters and one son — with Robert Herjavec.
A6: As of 2025, she resides in Toronto, Canada, living a private life away from media attention.
A7: No, Diane Plese has not remarried and prefers to keep her personal life private.