Bill Gates admitted to extramarital affairs and apologized for his ties to Jeffrey Epstein during a town hall at the Gates Foundation.
Admission of Affairs
Gates revealed details of his personal life in the meeting. He confirmed two relationships during his marriage to Melinda French Gates. “I did have affairs, one with a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and one with a Russian nuclear physicist whom I met through business activities,” Gates said. Additionally, he stated that Boris Nikolic, his former science adviser, informed Epstein about these affairs.
Gates emphasized his innocence in any wrongdoing. “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit,” he told staff. However Epstein used the information as leverage, according to reports.
Apology for Epstein Ties
Gates expressed regret over his association with Epstein. He described the relationship as a “huge mistake.” “It was a huge mistake to spend time with Epstein,” Gates said. Furthermore, he apologized for involving foundation executives in meetings with the financier.
Gates extended his remorse to others affected. “I apologize to other people who are drawn into this because of the mistake that I made,” he stated. Meanwhile he denied any involvement in Epstein’s crimes.
Insights from Released Documents
The admissions followed the release of Epstein files by the Justice Department. In a draft email, Epstein alleged that Gates received help with “illicit trysts” and drugs related to “sex with Russian girls.” Gates clarified that his affairs were unrelated to Epstein’s victims.
He also addressed photos in the files showing him with women. “To be clear, I never spent any time with victims, the women around him,” Gates said.
Foundation’s Statement
A Gates Foundation spokesperson confirmed the meeting. They noted that Gates spoke candidly and took responsibility for his actions. The organization focused on its philanthropic work despite the revelations.Gates’ ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, had warned him about Epstein in 2013. The couple divorced in 2021 after 27 years of marriage.
