Melinda Gates has reacted to her ex-husband Bill Gates’ recent comments about their divorce.
Earlier this year, the Microsoft co-founder described ending his 27-year marriage to Melinda as “the mistake he most regrets.”
In an interview with Elle for its 2025 Women of Impact issue, published on March 17, Melinda was asked about Bill’s remarks.
“You’ve clearly Googled more than I have,” she quipped, reportedly rolling her eyes before adding, “Look, divorces are painful, and it’s not something I would wish on any family.”
The philanthropist, who shares three children—Jennifer Gates Nassar, 28, Rory Gates, 25, and Phoebe Gates, 22—with Bill, acknowledged that leaving her marriage was one of the hardest yet most important decisions of her life.
Bill previously told The Times that his divorce was “miserable” for both him and Melinda for at least two years, adding that it topped the list of his biggest regrets.
Despite this, he emphasized that they remain on good terms and often see each other, particularly at family gatherings. “We have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events. The kids are doing well. They have good values,” he shared.
Bill did not elaborate on what led to their split, though in 2021, he admitted to having an affair with an employee during their marriage.
