Melinda French Gates, the ex-wife of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, spoke about the necessity for him to respond to questions that have arisen following the mention of his name in documents related to the late financier and convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. She stated that the publication of these documents reminded her of a "very difficult period" in their marriage. Bill Gates himself claims that he only had a few dinners with Epstein.
“It’s very difficult for me when this topic comes up again, as it reminds me of painful moments in my marriage,” Melinda French Gates shared in the NRR Wild Card podcast, which is set to be released on Thursday.
She added, “All the questions that may arise concern those mentioned in the documents, and, of course, my ex-husband.”
Bill Gates' connections with Jeffrey Epstein became known back in 2019, around the same time Melinda began discussing the divorce. Ultimately, the couple separated in 2021.
Gates' name appears in recently released materials from the U.S. Department of Justice related to the Epstein case, alongside the names of other prominent figures such as Elon Musk and Prince Andrew, the brother of King Charles III of the United Kingdom.
It is important to note that Bill Gates has not been charged with any crimes, and his mention in these materials does not indicate any illegal activity on his part.
Among the documents are two letters dated July 18, 2013, addressed to Bill Gates and sent by Epstein to his own email address. It is unknown whether they reached the businessman.
In one of the letters, written as a resignation from the Gates Foundation, Epstein complains that he had to seek medications for Bill Gates "after sex with Russian girls."
In another letter, starting with "Dear Bill," Epstein expresses dissatisfaction that Gates has ceased friendly communication with him and claims that the Microsoft co-founder asked him for antibiotics to treat a sexually transmitted disease, as well as inquiring how to secretly give medication to Melinda.
Gates' representatives commented: “These documents only show Epstein's frustration over his lack of real relationships with Gates and his willingness to resort to any tricks to slander.”
Bill Gates himself denies any connections with Epstein, except for a few dinners. In an interview with Australian channel 9News, he expressed regret over the time spent with Epstein and clarified that he was never on the late financier's island. Gates also claims that he did not receive the letters released by the Department of Justice.
“Epstein knew many wealthy people and said he could persuade them to support global health. Now I understand that this was a mistaken decision,” Gates explained about his meetings with Epstein.
“Spending time with him was foolish. I am one of many who regret getting to know him,” he added.
