Diane Plese: The Inspiring Story of a Successful Optometrist and the Woman Behind Robert Herjavec
When people hear the name Diane Plese, many immediately associate her with the famous entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” star Robert Herjavec. However, there’s much more to her story than being linked to a high-profile marriage. Diane Plese is an accomplished optometrist, a dedicated mother, and a woman who has gracefully managed to stay grounded despite living part of her life in the public eye.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Diane Plese’s background, education, career, marriage, divorce, and current life. We’ll also uncover how she became a respected professional while maintaining her dignity and privacy amid fame and media attent
Who Is Diane Plese?
Diane Plese is a Canadian optometrist best known for her long marriage to businessman and television personality Robert Herjavec, one of the investors on the hit reality show Shark Tank. Despite being thrust into the spotlight through her ex-husband’s fame, Diane Plese has built her own success story in the medical field.
Born and raised in Canada to Croatian immigrant parents, Plese grew up in a close-knit family that valued education, integrity, and hard work. Her early life shaped her into a compassionate and determined woman who later became a trusted name in eye care.
Diane Plese Life and Education of Diane Plese
Diane Plese was born in Toronto, Canada, into a family deeply rooted in Croatian traditions. Her parents, who immigrated to Canada seeking better opportunities, instilled in her the importance of education and perseverance.
From a young age, Diane was fascinated by science and healthcare. She pursued her passion by enrolling in optometry, a field that allowed her to combine science with her desire to help others. After completing her education, she officially became a licensed optometrist and began her professional journey.
Her education and upbringing provided her with a strong foundation for her career, enabling her to establish herself as a respected healthcare professional in her community.
Diane Plese’s Career as an Optometrist
Before she became known as Robert Herjavec’s wife, Diane Plese had already made a name for herself in her field. She built a thriving optometry practice in Toronto, where she was recognized for her professionalism, compassion, and expertise.
Her patients often described her as warm and approachable—traits that made her clinic a trusted place for eye care. She focused on providing comprehensive eye exams, vision correction, and preventive care for patients of all ages.
Even after her marriage to a multimillionaire entrepreneur, Diane continued to work diligently as an optometrist. This reflects her independent spirit and passion for her profession. Rather than relying on fame or wealth, she chose to define herself through her own achievements.
How Diane Plese Met Robert Herjavec
Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec’s love story began in the 1980s, long before he became a television celebrity. Their first meeting was serendipitous—Robert visited her clinic for an eye appointment, and the two connected immediately.
Their shared values, backgrounds, and outlook on life drew them closer, leading to a relationship that quickly blossomed into love. At the time, Robert was a young and ambitious entrepreneur with big dreams, while Diane was already establishing her medical career.
Their chemistry was undeniable, and in 1990, they tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony attended by close friends and family.
The Marriage: Building a Life Together
During their marriage, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec built a strong foundation based on mutual respect and shared ambitions. As Robert’s business ventures began to flourish, Diane provided unwavering support and stability on the home front.
Robert often credited Diane for being his emotional anchor during challenging times in his career. The couple shared three children—two daughters and a son—whom they raised with love and care in Toronto.
Despite the glamour that later came with Robert’s fame, Diane preferred a private and modest lifestyle. She focused on her family and medical practice rather than the spotlight.
Life as the Wife of a Shark Tank Star
When Shark Tank first aired in 2009, Robert Herjavec’s popularity skyrocketed. Suddenly, Diane Plese found herself connected to one of North America’s most recognizable entrepreneurs.
While many celebrity spouses embraced the limelight, Diane remained committed to maintaining a low profile. She rarely made public appearances or gave interviews, choosing to prioritize her children and her patients over fame.
However, life in the public eye brought new challenges. The growing attention on Robert’s personal life eventually began to affect their relationship, leading to tensions that would later result in their separation.
The Divorce of Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec
After nearly 25 years of marriage, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec separated in 2014, finalizing their divorce in 2016. The split came as a surprise to many, as the couple had long been viewed as one of the most stable pairs in the business world.
Reports suggest that the divorce was amicable, though emotional. Both parties expressed respect for each other, emphasizing their shared commitment to their children’s well-being.
Financially, the divorce attracted media attention due to the couple’s substantial assets. At the time, Robert’s net worth was estimated at over $200 million, leading to a significant settlement that made Diane one of the wealthiest ex-spouses in Canada.
Despite the challenges of such a public separation, Diane handled the situation with grace and dignity. She refrained from making negative comments about her ex-husband and remained focused on her private life.
Life After Divorce: A New Chapter
After her divorce, Diane Plese stepped back even further from the public eye. She dedicated her time to her family, professional practice, and personal growth.
Unlike many who seek attention after a high-profile split, Diane chose peace and privacy. She continued to live in Canada and reportedly maintains a strong relationship with her children. Her lifestyle reflects simplicity and independence—traits that have defined her throughout her life.
Today, Diane Plese serves as an inspiration to many women who find themselves starting over after major life changes. Her story reminds us that personal identity and self-worth are not tied to relationships or fame.
Diane Plese’s Children
Diane and Robert Herjavec share three children: two daughters, Caprice and Skye, and a son, Brendan. The family has always valued education, humility, and compassion—values that Diane instilled in her children from a young age.
Even after the divorce, Diane maintained a healthy co-parenting relationship with Robert. Their children have largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on their own lives and careers.
Diane Plese’s Personality and Values
What makes Diane Plese truly remarkable is her humility and resilience. Those who know her describe her as intelligent, kind, and composed under pressure. Despite the wealth and fame surrounding her, she has never allowed materialism to define her.
Her decision to continue working even after marrying a millionaire showcases her dedication to her profession and her belief in personal independence. Diane’s story stands as a testament to the idea that true strength lies in authenticity.
Net Worth and Financial Independence
Following her divorce settlement, Diane Plese reportedly received a significant portion of Robert Herjavec’s fortune. Estimates suggest that her net worth could be around $25–30 million, although exact figures are not publicly disclosed.
However, it’s important to note that Diane’s financial success didn’t come solely from her marriage. She had an established career as an optometrist long before she met Robert. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence in healthcare remain central to her professional identity.
Where Is Diane Plese Now?
As of recent reports, Diane Plese continues to live in Canada and maintains her private lifestyle. She avoids media attention and is not active on social media platforms.
Friends and acquaintances describe her as content and fulfilled, focusing on family and personal well-being. She occasionally participates in local medical community events but largely keeps a low profile.
Her life after fame highlights her preference for stability over publicity—something rare in today’s social media-driven world.
Diane Plese’s Legacy and Public Perception
Though she never sought fame, Diane Plese has gained admiration for her poise and professionalism. Many view her as a role model for women who balance successful careers with family responsibilities.
Her calm handling of a public divorce and her continued dedication to her medical practice have earned her respect both within and outside her field. In a culture often obsessed with celebrity drama, Diane’s quiet strength and dignity stand out.
Lessons We Can Learn from Diane Plese
- Stay Grounded: Despite fame and fortune, Diane never lost sight of her values.
- Embrace Independence: Her commitment to her career shows the importance of self-reliance.
- Handle Adversity Gracefully: Her dignified approach to her divorce is a powerful example of emotional maturity.
- Prioritize Family: Throughout her journey, her children have remained her top priority.
- Seek Privacy in a Public World: Diane proves that it’s possible to live meaningfully without constant public attention.
The Relationship Between Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec Today
Although their marriage ended, both Diane and Robert have expressed mutual respect for each other. They co-parent their children successfully and maintain cordial relations.
Robert has since remarried, but Diane remains focused on her own life, maintaining a peaceful and private existence. The lack of drama between them demonstrates the strength of their character and emotional intelligence.
Diane Plese’s Cultural Background
Diane Plese’s Croatian heritage has played a significant role in shaping her values and outlook on life. Growing up in a hardworking immigrant family instilled in her a sense of gratitude and determination.
She often credits her upbringing for her empathy as a medical professional and her resilience in handling life’s challenges. Her cultural roots also emphasize community and compassion—qualities she has carried into her work as an optometrist.
Why People Admire Diane Plese
Many people admire Diane Plese not only for her connection to a celebrity but for her own achievements. She represents intelligence, grace, and strength—qualities that transcend fame.
Her ability to maintain privacy in an era of oversharing is refreshing, and her successful career in healthcare highlights her independent spirit. To this day, she remains a figure of quiet inspiration for women around the world.
Interesting Facts About Diane Plese
- Profession: Optometrist
- Nationality: Canadian
- Ethnicity: Croatian
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Children: Three
- Famous For: Marriage to and divorce from businessman Robert Herjavec
- Known Traits: Grace, professionalism, and discretion
Conclusion
In a world fascinated by celebrity lives, Diane Plese stands as a refreshing reminder that true success and happiness come from within. Her life story is not one of fame or extravagance, but of hard work, family, and integrity.
From her successful career as an optometrist to her role as a devoted mother, Diane has shown remarkable strength and independence. Even after her high-profile divorce, she continued to live life on her own terms—quietly, gracefully, and purposefully.
Her journey is an inspiring example for anyone who believes in balancing personal ambition with compassion and humility.
FAQs About Diane Plese
1. Who is Diane Plese?
Diane Plese is a Canadian optometrist best known as the ex-wife of Shark Tank investor Robert Herjavec. She built a successful medical career and is admired for her professionalism and grace.
2. What is Diane Plese’s profession?
She is a licensed optometrist based in Toronto, Canada, known for her expertise in vision care and patient dedication.
3. How long were Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec married?
They were married for about 25 years, from 1990 until their divorce in 2016.
4. Does Diane Plese have children?
Yes, Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec have three children—two daughters and one son.
5. What is Diane Plese’s net worth?
Although not officially confirmed, Diane Plese’s estimated net worth is between $25–30 million, largely due to her career and divorce settlement.
6. Where is Diane Plese now?
She currently resides in Canada, living a private life and continuing her work in optometry
