Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently opened up for the first time about his relationship with Paula Hurd. In an interview on the Today show, the 69-year-old shared his happiness, saying, “I’m fortunate to have a wonderful girlfriend, Paula. We’re having fun, going to the Olympics, and enjoying many great experiences together.”
Paula Hurd, a philanthropist and developer, was previously married to former Oracle CEO Mark Hurd until his passing in 2019. Gates and Hurd were first spotted together in 2022 and made their relationship official in early 2023. They have been seen together at various events, including the Paris Olympics, Breakthrough Prize Ceremony and Anant Ambani’s wedding.
Bill Gates on divorce with Melinda French Gates
Reflecting on his past marriage to Melinda French Gates, which ended in 2021, Gates described the split as "the mistake I most regret." In an interview with the Times of London, Bill Gates acknowledged that his divorce from Melinda French Gates after 27 years of marriage remains the biggest regret of his life.
While he expressed greater happiness in his current life, he candidly admitted that the divorce was an incredibly difficult period for both him and Melinda, lasting for at least two years. He also admitted that his divorce was one of the biggest regrets of his life.
In the aftermath of the divorce, Bill Gates acknowledged his shortcomings, admitting to causing pain to Melinda during their marriage. He specifically mentioned an incident involving an affair with a Microsoft employee, stating, "I certainly made mistakes, and I take responsibility." He emphasised that delving into specifics was not constructive but acknowledged the harm caused.
Another significant factor contributing to their separation was Bill's past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Melinda publicly expressed her strong disapproval of these interactions, stating, "I did not like that he had meetings with Jeffrey Epstein, no. He was abhorrent. He was evil personified." Bill has since acknowledged his relationship with Epstein as a "mistake."
In another recent interview, Bill Gates also admitted to using drugs like LSD and marijuana as a teenager to fit in and impress girls, though he said it was unsuccessful, adding, "It didn't work out. But I tried."