In a recent interview with The Times, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates opened up about his divorce from Melinda French Gates, calling it his biggest regret. The billionaire admitted that while he has made several mistakes in his life, nothing compares to the end of his 27-year marriage.
Gates, now 69, reflected on how his family gave him stability during the years he built his tech empire. He shared that family and marriage kept him “grounded”. Despite their divorce in 2021, Gates and Melinda continue to maintain a strong bond. They have three children together and two grandchildren.
“I’m more cheerful now,” Gates said, adding that the divorce was a painful process for both him and Melinda and that it tops the list of his biggest failures. “The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years,” he admitted. However, the former couple has remained close, often reuniting for family events. Gates noted that his kids — Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe — are doing well and have strong values.
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Bill and Melinda’s current dating lives
Since their separation, both Bill and Melinda have found love again. Gates is now dating Paula Hurd, widow of former Oracle CEO Mark Hurd. The couple made their public debut at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in April 2024 and have been spotted together frequently since then. Melinda has also moved forward, starting a relationship with entrepreneur Philip Vaughn. Vaughn, a former Microsoft programmer, is now the founder of Tavour, a craft beer delivery company.
While both have embraced new beginnings, they continue to prioritise their family. “Melinda and I still spend time together as a family,” Gates said.
The couple’s divorce came after revelations of personal and professional challenges. In a 2022 interview, Gates acknowledged causing pain to Melinda due to an alleged affair with a Microsoft employee. Melinda also cited Bill’s alleged connection with convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein as a key reason for their split, calling it “abhorrent.” Despite these struggles, Gates and Melinda appear to have moved forward while maintaining a cordial relationship.
