Bill Gates has revisited the emotional terrain of his divorce from Melinda French Gates, which he describes as the most significant mistake of his life. Reflecting on the end of their 27-year marriage, he shared insights about the heartbreaking decision taken in May 2021.
The public announcement followed about a year of private separation during which the couple struggled to navigate their relationship. According to Gates, the divorce process was ‘miserable’ for both him and Melinda for at least two years. “The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years,” Gates told The Times of London. The tech mogul had envisioned their marriage as lasting as long as his parents' — 45 years — which added to his sense of regret.
Bill and Melinda's love story began at Microsoft, where they first crossed paths during a sales meeting back in 1987. Melinda, then a product manager, saw Bill transition from mere success to overwhelming fame as they built their lives together, culminating in their wedding on New Year’s Day, 1994. During their married years, they welcomed three children: Jennifer, 28, Rory, 25, and Phoebe, 22. Bill recounted how Melinda had been instrumental during his rise to success: “When Melinda and I met, I was fairly successful but not ridiculously successful—that came during the time we were together. So, she saw me through a lot.”
Despite their divorce, both Gates and French Gates have maintained cordial family ties. “Melinda and I still see each other—we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events,” he shared. This cooperative spirit emphasizes their commitment to their children’s well-being, leading to hopes for positive familial values.
The impact of their separation also rippled through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the world's largest philanthropies they co-founded. Melinda’s exit from the Foundation in 2024 marked a significant shift. Bill expressed disappointment at her decision: “I was disappointed she took the option to go off.” This change altered the structure of their philanthropic efforts, now rebranded as The Gates Foundation.
Over the years, this divorce has prompted public scrutiny and speculation about its causes. Melinda, during interviews, voiced her displeasure over Bill's past associations, particularly with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. “I did not like [that] he had meetings with Jeffrey Epstein, no. I made it clear to him,” she stated, referencing the improbability of reconciling their differences.
While Gates appeared reflective and accountable, admitting, “I certainly made mistakes, and I take responsibility,” he avoided delving too deeply, maintaining, “I don’t think delving [into] the particulars is constructive.” He has not publicly confirmed or denied claims about infidelity, highlighting instead the emotional toll the separation has taken on both of them.
Looking back now, Gates places his divorce at the pinnacle of his regrets. “There are others but none matter,” he stated, indicating the weight of this decision on his life. Yet, he noted, “I caused pain... and I feel terrible about it.”
Today, Gates reports feeling more optimistic, having moved forward since the split. He has been publicly linked with Paula Hurd, the widow of former Oracle CEO Mark Hurd. He described himself as “more cheerful” since finding new love, signaling personal growth after what seems to be emotional turmoil. On the other hand, Melinda has also reportedly found happiness post-divorce, dating journalist Jon Du Pre.
While the past casts shadows on their relationship, both Bill and Melinda remain focused on their family and individual futures. They envision creating lasting memories together as they navigate their roles as parents and grandparents. “The kids are doing well. They have good values,” Bill concluded, offering reassurance about their shared commitment to family development moving forward.
Gates’ insights serve as both personal reflections and broader life lessons on relationships, success, and the inevitable trials of transitioning from one life phase to another. The recollections of the past may sting, but they do illuminate the path forward, proving love transformed may still flourish over time.