Updated: February 26, 2026
Bill Gates Affairs: Bill Gates, the Microsoft co-founder and one of the world’s most influential philanthropists, has long been in the public eye for his tech innovations and global health efforts. But his personal life—especially the rumors and revelations about extramarital affairs—has sparked endless curiosity. With fresh admissions surfacing in 2026, nearly five years after his high-profile divorce from Melinda French Gates, the topic continues to make headlines. Here’s a clear, straightforward look at the facts, without the sensationalism.
Table of Contents
The 2021 Divorce That Shook the World
In May 2021, Bill and Melinda French Gates announced the end of their 27-year marriage, calling it “irretrievably broken.” The couple, who share three children—Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe—had built an empire together through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The split was amicable on the surface, but deeper issues soon emerged.
Melinda later spoke about “betrayals” and “painful times” in their relationship. Bill himself has called the divorce his “biggest regret,” admitting he wasn’t always faithful. The separation finalized in August 2021, marking the close of one of tech’s most powerful partnerships.
Known Affairs and Admissions Over the Years
Reports of Bill Gates’ extramarital relationships date back years, but key details came to light around the divorce and beyond.
- In 2019, Microsoft investigated a 2000 affair between Gates and a company employee. A spokesperson confirmed it was an “affair almost 20 years ago which ended amicably.”
- Melinda cited infidelity as a factor in the split, alongside Gates’ ties to Jeffrey Epstein (which Gates has repeatedly called a “huge mistake”).
- In a major 2026 revelation during a Gates Foundation town hall (reported by outlets like The Wall Street Journal), Gates admitted to two additional affairs during the marriage—with a Russian bridge player met at bridge events and a Russian nuclear physicist met through business activities.
These confessions came amid renewed Epstein file scrutiny, though Gates emphasized the affairs didn’t involve Epstein’s victims and he “did nothing illicit.”
Timeline of Key Events in Bill Gates’ Personal Controversies
Here’s a quick overview in table form for clarity:
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Affair with Microsoft employee | Investigated by board in 2019; ended amicably per spokesperson |
| 2010s | Meetings with Jeffrey Epstein | Gates regrets the association; cited as painful for Melinda |
| May 2021 | Divorce announcement from Melinda French Gates | After 27 years of marriage; cited irreconcilable differences |
| 2021-2025 | Public reflections on infidelity | Melinda discusses “betrayals”; Bill calls divorce his biggest regret |
| Feb 2026 | Admission of two affairs with Russian women | Shared in foundation meeting; one bridge player, one nuclear physicist |
This timeline shows how past actions resurfaced, influencing public perception long after the divorce.
Life After Divorce: Moving Forward
Post-divorce, Bill Gates has focused on philanthropy, climate initiatives, and personal growth. He’s been in a relationship with Paula Hurd (widow of former Oracle CEO Mark Hurd) since around 2022-2023. The pair have attended events together, including the Olympics, and Gates described her as his “serious girlfriend” in early 2025 interviews, saying they’re “having fun” and enjoying life.
Melinda has also moved on, launching Pivotal Ventures and speaking openly about healing from the marriage’s challenges. Both emphasize co-parenting and their shared foundation work continues, though separately.
Conclusion: Lessons from a Very Public Life
Bill Gates’ affairs and the fallout from his marriage remind us that even the most accomplished people face personal struggles. His recent admissions show accountability, but they also highlight the lasting impact of infidelity on relationships. While the headlines focus on scandal, Gates remains dedicated to global good—proving that personal mistakes don’t erase professional legacies.