NEW YORK (AP) — Barry Diller has a memoir coming out next spring, covering a life that could fill multiple volumes.
Simon & Schuster announced Wednesday that Diller's “Who Knew” will be released May 20, following his rise from the mail room of the William Morris Agency to the heights of wealth and influence. His many achievements range from producing “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Saturday Night Fever” to founding the Fox Broadcasting Company.
“I’ve had a history with telling stories and I thought mine was a good yarn if I could write it myself and tell it truthfully. I welcome it being out there for others to judge, and hopefully enjoy,” Diller, 82, said in a statement.
He will also write about his marriage to Diane von Fürstenberg and his current position as chairman and CEO of the holding company IAC, where brands include Tinder, Expedia and such magazines as People and Travel + Leisure.
“Barry Diller’s book is about much more than business. It is a remarkably honest and entertaining account of his personal journey, an unconventional love story, and a fascinating tour through show business and digital media,” Jonathan Karp, CEO of Simon & Schuster and book's editor, said in a statement. “Readers know when an author is telling the truth, and ‘Who Knew’ is delightfully candid on every page, in addition to being full of insights about our lives at work.”
Financial terms for Diller's book deal were not disclosed. He was represented by Robert Barnett, the Washington attorney whose clients range from Barbra Streisand to former President Bill Clinton. Earlier this year, “Who Knew” was listed on Amazon.com as an Alfred A. Knopf release but was then removed. When asked about the apparent change in publishers, Barnett declined comment.
Hillel Italie, The Associated Press
