Melinda Gates has offered a candid response to her ex-husband Bill Gates’s recent remarks, where he referred to their divorce as “the mistake I most regret.” In an interview with Elle (fashion magazine) for its 2025 Women of Impact issue, Melinda addressed the comments with a mix of humour and sincerity.
When asked about Bill’s statement, Melinda quipped, “You’ve clearly Googled more than I have,” reportedly rolling her eyes. She went on to acknowledge the emotional toll of their separation, saying, “Look, divorces are painful, and it’s not something I would wish on any family.” Despite the challenges, she emphasised that the decision to end their 27-year marriage was a necessary step for her personal growth and well-being.
Bill Gates had previously described the divorce as “miserable” for both of them, noting that it was his biggest regret. However, he also highlighted their continued commitment to co-parenting their three children and collaborating on philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The couple, who announced their separation in 2021, have since moved forward in their personal lives while maintaining a professional partnership. Melinda remains focused on her work with Pivotal Ventures, advocating for women’s rights and social impact, while Bill has found love again with Paula Hurd.
Melinda Gates shares the important advice she received from Warren Buffett
Melinda French Gates recently revealed a pivotal piece of career advice she received from billionaire investor Warren Buffett. In a recent LinkedIn News interview, Melinda shared that Buffett advised her to focus on what she would “not do,” rather than trying to do everything.
“Warren Buffett once said to us … ‘Find your bullseye of what you’re working on and let the other things fall away. You’ll feel better if you keep your talents in that bullseye and keep working on those issues, and you’ll feel less bad about letting other things go,’” French Gates said during the interview. “And I think that’s true,” she added.
Warren Buffett, the billionaire investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, was a trustee and major donor to the Gates Foundation from 2006 to 2021.
