Melinda French Gates has spoken about the emotional toll of renewed scrutiny on her former marriage after records linked to Jeffrey Epstein mentioned her ex-husband, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
In a recent podcast interview, the philanthropist said the disclosures reopened memories from what she described as harrowing moments during her marriage. She said the situation brought intense sadness but stressed that those named in the files should address any remaining questions.
Melinda French Gates and Bill Gates ended their marriage in 2021 after nearly 30 years together.
Reaction to newly released documents
The US Department of Justice recently released millions of documents connected to Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. Epstein had previously been convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor.
The records include an allegation attributed to Epstein claiming that Bill Gates contracted a sexually transmitted infection. A spokesperson for Bill Gates dismissed the allegation, calling it false and without merit.
None of Epstein’s victims has accused Gates of any criminal wrongdoing. His appearance in the documents does not indicate illegal activity.
Gates responds to allegations
In an interview with Australian media, Bill Gates addressed the release of the files and expressed regret over his past association with Epstein. He said their interactions involved only a few dinners and confirmed that he never visited Epstein’s private island.
Gates said he regretted spending any time with Epstein and apologized for the decision. He also stated that certain emails attributed to Epstein were never sent and contained false information.
Background on the couple’s separation
US media have previously reported that Melinda French Gates felt concerned about her former husband’s connection to Epstein before their separation. After the divorce became public, Bill Gates acknowledged having had an affair with a Microsoft employee several years earlier.
During her podcast appearance, Melinda French Gates said she felt relieved to have moved on from that period of her life. She also made clear that she does not speak on behalf of others named in the records.
She said those involved should respond to any unanswered questions themselves.
Why the Epstein files continue to draw attention
The newly released material includes emails, documents, and photographs that shed further light on Epstein’s network of contacts across business, politics, and public life. Some relationships reportedly continued even after his earlier conviction.
A spokesperson for Bill Gates stated that the documents reveal Epstein’s frustration after failing to maintain a relationship with Gates. The spokesperson added that Epstein made false claims to damage Gates’ reputation.
