Bill and Melinda Gates announced their separation in 2021. The two share three adult children: Jennifer Gates Nassar and Rory and Phoebe Gates. Bill Gates opened up about his divorce after three decades of marriage in a candid interview with the UK Times, and he said that the dissolution of their union made “the top of his list” of mistakes.

Melinda Gates has responded to her ex-husband Bill Gates ’s comments about their divorce. Earlier this year, the Microsoft founder named his divorce from Melinda after 27 years as “the mistake he most regrets.” In an interview with Elle for its 2025 Women of Impact issue published on Monday, Melinda was asked about his remarks.

On a personal note, when asked what she’d want somebody to find if they searched for updates on her down the line, French Gates replied that she’d want the public to see “she’s thriving on the other side of a divorce.” As for her now, the Pivotal Ventures founder told Elle she is focused on her work while still making time for her personal life.