Bill Gates is combining personal growth with new romance. Just weeks after reflecting on his regrets about the end of his 27-year marriage to Melinda French Gates, the Microsoft co-founder recently shared insights about his dating life and gave special mention to his girlfriend, Paula Hurd.
During an interview with the Today show on February 4, Gates, 69, revealed, "That’s right, I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend. Her name’s Paula." He went on to say they are enjoying their time together, stating, "So we’re having fun. Going to the Olympics and lots of great things.”
Gates' romance with Paula Hurd began to attract attention around 2023, shortly after his divorce from Melinda came to an end. Since then, the couple has attended various sporting events together, highlighting their shared passion for tennis and other activities. Their first public outing as a couple was spotted at the Australian Open two years after Gates finalized his divorce.
Bill married Melinda French Gates in 1994, and during their relationship, they welcomed three children: daughters Jennifer Gates Nassar, 28, and Phoebe Gates, 22, along with son Rory Gates, 25. The couple also recently stepped back together to co-parent their adult children.
Despite his current happiness, Gates has candidly expressed his feelings about his marriage with Melinda. He shared with The Times of London earlier this year, "That was the mistake I most regret. You would have to put it at the top of the list." He elaborated, emphasizing the emotional toll of their split, saying, "The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years." His reflections included the importance of shared experiences and the family they created together, stating, "There is a certain wonderfulness to spending your entire adult life with one person."
On the Today show, Gates expressed, "My business career has been phenomenal, my kids are phenomenal, so it’s even hard for me to complain about things... I moved past the divorce, and Melinda’s doing well. I’ve got a lot of work I love to do.” His underlying sentiment seemed clear: even amid challenges, there’s much to appreciate.
While Gates acknowledges the significant change brought about by the divorce, it hasn’t overshadowed his newfound relationship with Hurd. He noted, "Even if I knew it wouldn’t last forever, I would still do it again," reaffirming the value of those years shared with Melinda and their families.
Paula Hurd, who was previously married to Oracle CEO Mark Hurd until his death in 2019, is also stepping forward with Gates at various events, showcasing their mutual interests. They made their red carpet debut together earlier this year at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony, signaling a new chapter for both of them.
Gates' recent memoir, "Source Code: My Beginnings," even includes praise for Hurd, as he wrote, "Early readers of the manuscript included Paula Hurd, Marc St. John, and Sheila Gulati." The close insights from his trusted friends were invaluable during certain stages of his writing process.
Reflecting on family, Gates mentioned fulfilling roles not just as a father but also as a grandfather. His first grandchildren are keeping him busy and bringing joy to his life. "I’ll try and be a good grandfather, read some books like my grandparents did," he said during the Today interview, emphasizing his desire to nurture these new relationships.
It's clear Gates is at peace with his present circumstances. The shared experiences with his children and new love bring him happiness. He noted, "Melinda and I still see each other— we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events.” His sentiments speak to the importance of co-parenting and maintaining connections through shared family ties.
While life has certainly shifted for Bill Gates, his focus appears to be on embracing what lies ahead rather than dwelling on the past. He has changed his narrative from reflecting solely on the divorce to celebrating both his children and the adventures he’s having with Hurd. With Bill Gates moving confidently forward, it seems he’s found balance amid the transitions of life.
Gates’ personal evolution shows resilience and the ability to find love after loss, marking another chapter filled with hope and possibilities.