Melinda French Gates says Bill Gates must answer questions about Epstein files

Melinda French Gates says Bill Gates must answer questions about Epstein files

On February 3, 2026, philanthropist Melinda French Gates addressed newly released documents tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation and said her ex‑husband, Microsoft co‑founder Bill Gates, needs to answer questions about his association with Epstein. The comments were made during an interview on the NPR “Wild Card” podcast and followed publication of thousands of pages of records by the U.S. Department of Justice. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

The documents include alleged draft emails from Epstein in 2013 that reference Gates, including claims about seeking medical assistance related to a sexually transmitted infection. A spokesperson for Bill Gates responded to the allegations, calling them “absolutely absurd and completely false” and saying the material reflects Epstein’s attempts to defame him. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

French Gates said the revelations brought back “very, very painful times” from their marriage and emphasized her empathy for the victims of Epstein’s crimes. She said she has moved on from the marriage and described being “happy to be away from all the muck” connected to the situation. French Gates also voiced hope for justice for the women exploited by Epstein. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Melinda and Bill Gates divorced in 2021 after 27 years of marriage, and prior reporting has noted that Gates’s association with Epstein was a point of tension during their relationship. The interview in which French Gates discussed the issue is scheduled to air in full on February 5, 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}