Melinda French Gates has spoken about her post-divorce life and her meeting with Jeffrey Epstein, describing the late financier as an "abhorrent human being". In a wide-ranging interview, the philanthropist said her heart went out to Epstein's victims, adding that they deserved peace and justice.
French Gates, who divorced Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates in 2021 after 27 years of marriage, cited his unfaithfulness and continued contact with Epstein as factors in the split. She had always been sceptical of Epstein, and recently said she was happy to be away from "all the muck".
Now 61, French Gates is focusing on Pivotal, her philanthropic organisation promoting women's empowerment. The foundation has pledged $2bn towards supporting women and families, and received $12.5bn from Bill Gates as part of their settlement. She describes her new phase of life as "beautiful", with time to enjoy simple pleasures like visiting bookshops and walking in Seattle.
Despite her estimated $30bn net worth, French Gates said she is choosing to "keep walking the path near you" after years of frantic travel with the Gates Foundation. She noted that seeing a blue heron on a morning stroll made her feel almost boastful.
