Melinda Gates responds to Bill Gates expressing regret over divorce, says it was ‘painful but necessary’

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Melinda French Gates has broken her silence regarding her ex-husband Bill Gates’ comments that their divorce was his “biggest regret.”

In an interview with Elle’s 2025 Women of Impact issue, published on March 17, she made it clear that she does not share the same sentiment.

Melinda Gates' response to Bill Gates' comments about their divorce

The outlet noted that the interview took place back in January, around the time when Bill’s statements gained widespread attention.

“You’ve clearly Googled more than I have,” Melinda quipped with an eye roll when asked about Bill’s remarks.

Melinda, a philanthropist and the founder of Pivotal Ventures, acknowledged the emotional difficulty of their separation but stressed that it was ultimately a necessary step in her life.

“Look, divorces are painful, and it’s not something I would wish on any family,” she said.

However, she also reaffirmed that leaving the marriage was one of the most challenging but crucial decisions she had ever made.

Bill Gates calls divorce his ‘biggest regret’

Bill Gates’ comments about their split were first published in The Times on January 25, in which he admitted that the divorce topped the list of his biggest mistakes in life.

“The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years,” the Microsoft co-founder revealed.

“There is a certain wonderfulness to spending your entire adult life with one person because of the memories and depth of things you have done and having kids together,” he said.

Bill also credited Melinda with supporting him during his meteoric rise to success.

“When Melinda and I met, I was fairly successful but not ridiculously successful, that came during the time we were together. So, she saw me through a lot,” he said, according to E! News.

In an interview with Today on February 4, he maintained that, despite how things ended, he wouldn’t have changed their time together.

“Even if I knew it wouldn’t last forever, I would still do it again,” he said, emphasizing the impact of their three children and shared philanthropic work.

Bill Gates and Melinda Gates' lives after divorce

Since they split in 2021, both Bill and Melinda have continued to dedicate themselves to philanthropic efforts while moving forward in their personal lives.

Bill has found love again with his girlfriend of two years, Paula Hurd.

“I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend,” he revealed, sharing that they have been enjoying their time together and have exciting plans, including attending the upcoming Olympics.

On the other hand, Melinda remains focused on her work and family.

She continues her efforts in global philanthropy, advocating for women’s rights and social impact through Pivotal Ventures.