Iconic singer Diana Ross has experienced her fair share of love and heartbreak throughout her life. Back in 1971, just a year after releasing her first self-titled studio album, Diana Ross, she married her first husband, Robert Ellis Silberstein. Their union was brief, though, as they divorced in 1977. Following their split, Diana found love again and married businessman Arne Naess Jr. in 1985. This second marriage lasted longer, but like the first, it eventually ended in separation in 2000.
Meeting Her First Love
Diana’s first encounter with Robert happened during what seemed like an ordinary shopping trip in Los Angeles. She was out buying a present for her then-boyfriend, Berry Gordy. As fate would have it, she turned to Robert for his opinion on a gift, and the two instantly clicked. In a January 1976 interview with People magazine, Diana described Robert as “a rare thing, a gentleman who is young, alive, and very handsome—all the fantasy things you think of in a husband.” Together, they welcomed two children: Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross. Even though their marriage ended, the bond they shared during their time together clearly left a lasting impression.
Second Time Around
Determined not to give up on love, Diana remarried eight years after her first divorce. She tied the knot with Arne Naess Jr., a man who added another chapter to her life. Arne became the father of her two youngest children, Ross Naess and Evan Ross. Tragically, Arne’s life was cut short in January 2004 when he died in a climbing accident at Groot Drakenstein mountain. In an interview shortly after his passing, Diana spoke fondly of Arne, remembering him as a “great mountaineer” who embraced adventure with every step. She said, “He was charming. He was a man’s man, a lover so much. A romantic. There are so many wonderful things about Arne.”
Read also:Harvey Actor Suits The Ultimate Guide To Iconic Styles And Where To Get Them
Diana also highlighted how Arne never forgot to remind her to send thank-you notes to her staff, friends, and family. “We were always so busy moving, but he never forgot,” Diana recalled. “He was just very good at remembering and being there for his friends. He was a very special man. It was a gift. He was very special, and I know that he had never forgotten his way because he was always there for his mom, Kiki.”
Remembering a Beloved Husband
Arne’s funeral was a poignant moment for Diana. She described it as “very difficult,” yet “beautiful.” She remembered seeing a “rainbow” and feeling a sense of reassurance that everything would be okay. “He was inspirational and people knew him,” she explained. “That makes me feel good, and it makes my sons feel good. They were proud of their dad.” Arne was laid to rest in Oslo, Norway, leaving behind a legacy of love and adventure.
Keep scrolling to uncover more about Diana’s two ex-husbands and the impact they had on her life.
