Credit: DepositPhotos
Bill Gates has addressed past infidelity during his marriage to Melinda French Gates, following renewed scrutiny surrounding his previous association with Jeffrey Epstein.
According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, Gates spoke candidly during a recent meeting with staff at his philanthropic foundation, acknowledging that he had extramarital affairs while married. The report states that Gates referenced two relationships, including one with a bridge player he met at tournaments and another with a nuclear physicist he encountered through professional circles.
During the meeting, Gates reportedly described his association with Epstein as a “grave error” in judgment and apologized to those affected by his past decisions. He has repeatedly stated that he did not participate in or witness any illegal sexual activity during his interactions with Epstein.
Gates first met Epstein in 2011, several years after Epstein had served a sentence related to soliciting a minor. In prior interviews, Gates has said he regretted maintaining contact, particularly in light of later revelations about Epstein’s conduct.
Melinda French Gates, who divorced Gates in 2021, has previously expressed discomfort regarding his ties to Epstein. In a recent podcast appearance, she described the resurfacing of related details as painful and reflective of a difficult period in their marriage.
No criminal charges have been filed against Gates in connection with the Epstein case. The broader investigation and release of associated documents have led to public discussion about numerous high-profile individuals mentioned in the records, though inclusion in such files does not in itself indicate wrongdoing.
