Melinda French Gates, the ex-wife of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, expressed the opinion that he "should explain himself" regarding his name mentioned in materials related to the late financier and convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. She noted that the publication of these documents brings back memories of a "very difficult time" in their marriage. Gates insists that their connection with Epstein was limited to just a few dinners.
In the NRR Wild Card podcast, set to be released on Thursday, Melinda French Gates shared her feelings: "For me, it’s very difficult when this topic comes up again, as it takes me back to that painful period of my marriage." She added that the questions arising from these documents should be directed to those mentioned in them, including her ex-husband.
Bill Gates' connections with Jeffrey Epstein became known back in 2019 when, according to reports from American media, Melinda began discussing divorce. As a result, the couple separated in 2021.
Gates' name appears in recently released materials from the U.S. Department of Justice concerning 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 wrongdoing, and the mention of his name in the documents does not imply his involvement in any illegal activities.
Among the documents are two letters dated July 18, 2013, that Epstein sent to his email, addressed to Gates. It is unclear whether they reached the businessman.
One of the letters is a resignation statement from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in which Epstein complains about the need to find medications for Gates "to deal with the consequences of sex with Russian girls."
In another letter, beginning with the salutation "Dear Bill," Epstein expresses dissatisfaction that Gates has cut off communication with him and claims that Gates asked him for antibiotics to treat a sexually transmitted disease, as well as inquiring about how to secretly give medications to Melinda.
Gates' representatives commented: "These documents only highlight Epstein's frustration over the lack of a real relationship with Gates and his attempts to slander and trap him." Gates himself claims that their connection with Epstein was limited to a few dinners.
In an interview with the Australian channel 9News, he expressed regret about the time spent with Epstein and noted that he never visited his island. Gates also added that he did not receive the letters from Epstein published by the Department of Justice.
"Epstein knew many influential people and claimed he could persuade them to donate funds for global health. Now I understand that it was hopeless," Gates explained his meetings with him.
"Spending time with him was a mistake. I am one of many who regret meeting him," he concluded.
