‘No girl should ever endure what Epstein put them through’

In a February 4, 2026, interview with NPR, Melinda French Gates discussed her departure from the Gates Foundation and expressed her hope that victims of Jeffrey Epstein receive justice. She stated that her ex-husband, Bill Gates' connections to the Epstein files resurface painful memories from their marriage. French Gates did not elaborate on the specific nature of these memories. Her comments highlight the ongoing impact of the Epstein case and its connection to prominent figures. The interview provides a personal perspective on the situation from a philanthropist who was formerly married to Bill Gates.

Melinda French Gates has publicly addressed the resurfacing of her ex-husband Bill Gates's association with Jeffrey Epstein, stating it brought back "painful times" in their marriage. Her comments follow the release of documents containing allegations by Epstein, including a claim that Bill Gates contracted a sexually transmitted disease, which a spokesperson for Bill Gates has denied as "absolutely absurd and completely false." Melinda French Gates emphasized that those named in the records, including her ex-husband, need to answer the questions raised. The couple divorced in 2021, and reports suggest Melinda French Gates was previously troubled by Bill Gates's relationship with Epstein. The released documents include emails purportedly drafted by Epstein containing further accusations against Bill Gates, though their authenticity and whether they were sent are unconfirmed.