Recent disclosures tied to the release of Epstein-related documents have once again drawn public attention to the past interactions between Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Newly revealed text messages, reportedly exchanged between Epstein and an adviser to Gates, suggest that while Gates maintained contact with Epstein for a period of time, his former wife, Melinda French Gates, strongly opposed the relationship and ultimately insisted that further communication cease.
The messages, reviewed by RadarOnline.com and included in a broader batch of Epstein-related materials released this month, provide additional context to a story that has been scrutinized for years. While no wrongdoing by Gates has been alleged in the newly disclosed texts, the documents shed light on internal discussions, personal boundaries within the Gates marriage, and the circumstances that contributed to its eventual dissolution.
Background: Gates and Epstein
Bill Gates, one of the world’s most prominent technology entrepreneurs and philanthropists, first met Jeffrey Epstein in the early 2010s. At the time, Epstein was already a controversial figure due to a prior conviction related to sex offenses. Despite this, Epstein continued to associate with powerful individuals across finance, politics, and philanthropy.
Gates has acknowledged that meeting with Epstein was a mistake, stating publicly that he regrets the association. According to Gates, the meetings were related to discussions around philanthropy and fundraising concepts, particularly in the context of global health and charitable initiatives.
Melinda French Gates, however, has stated repeatedly that she was deeply uncomfortable with the relationship from the outset. In later interviews and in her memoir, she emphasized that she made her objections clear and that the issue weighed heavily on their marriage.
The Newly Released Text Messages
The recently disclosed text messages reportedly date back to 2017 and involve Epstein communicating with one of Gates’s advisers. The messages reference discussions about a potential venture, described as a donor-advised charitable fund that Epstein hoped to manage.
According to the texts, Gates initially expressed some level of interest in the proposal. However, the adviser ultimately informed Epstein that the idea would not move forward, citing opposition from Gates’s wife.
One message reportedly stated: “He wants to talk to you, but his wife won’t let him.” In follow-up communications, the adviser relayed messages suggesting Epstein expressed regret about stepping away from the proposal and sent personal greetings through the intermediary.
While the tone of the messages appears informal, they underscore a clear boundary that had been established within the Gates household. The communications suggest that Melinda French Gates’s objections were decisive in ending any further collaboration.
Melinda French Gates’s Position
Melinda French Gates has been consistent in her public comments regarding Epstein. She has said she met Epstein only once and found the encounter deeply unsettling. In interviews, she explained that she voiced her concerns directly to her husband and made it clear that she did not approve of continued contact.
In her memoir, released earlier this year, Melinda wrote candidly about the strain Epstein’s presence placed on their marriage. She also addressed broader issues of trust, values, and fidelity, noting that Gates had publicly acknowledged he was not always faithful during their relationship.
