Barry Diller Reflects on Life in New Memoir ‘Who Knew’

NEW YORK, NY — Barry Diller, a pivotal figure in American entertainment, has released his new memoir titled “Who Knew,” revealing personal insights and reflections on his remarkable career. Diller discussed his book with PBS News Hour host Geoff Bennett during a recent interview.

Diller has been a transformative force in the industry for over 50 years, launching iconic television projects like ABC‘s “Movie of the Week” and leading Paramount Pictures. His influence extended into the digital age, with major ventures in online travel, home services, and dating through companies such as Expedia and Match.

“I thought this is just a good story if I can tell it true,” Diller said about his motivation for writing the memoir, which took him ten years to complete. He hesitated to publish it, influenced by his wife, fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg, who highlighted the dangers of revealing such personal anecdotes.

In the memoir, Diller also shares his journey of coming out later in life, acknowledging a closet filled with visibility yet lacking public declarations. Reflecting on this experience, he emphasized the importance of truthfulness in storytelling, saying, “I just had to tell my story true.”

Throughout the conversation, Diller expressed nostalgia for the era of mass television, stating that society has lost a sense of community by shifting into a fragmented media landscape dominated by algorithms.

“We have lost that you had almost an entire country watching one thing at one time,” he said. “That was enormously community-building, and I think that is a shame.”

Barry Diller’s memoir not only chronicles his extensive career but also addresses deeper themes of identity and personal growth. The book is available now for readers interested in the life of this influential media mogul.