Bill Gates didn’t hold back when discussing the end of his 27-year marriage to Melinda French Gates, calling it his “biggest mistake.” Speaking to The Times of London about his upcoming memoir, Source Code, Gates reflected on their long relationship and the profound impact it had on his life.
“There’s a wonderfulness to spending your adult life with one person—shared memories, raising kids, and growing together,” he said. Melinda supported Gates through critical periods of his life, including the height of his success as Microsoft’s co-founder.
The couple’s split in 2021 marked a tough chapter, with Gates admitting his role in the pain it caused. “I have responsibility for causing a lot of pain to my family. It was a tough year, but I feel good that we’re all moving forward now,” he shared in a candid moment.
Despite the divorce, the two initially worked together at The Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest philanthropic organizations. Melinda, however, stepped down as co-chair and trustee last year—a decision Gates admitted left him “disappointed.”
The former couple has maintained a cordial relationship, coming together for family events with their three children and two grandchildren. “The kids are doing well. They have good values,” Gates said, emphasizing their shared focus on family.
When asked about other regrets, Gates replied, “There are others, but none that matter.” His honesty offers a window into the challenges of balancing personal life with public success.
What can we learn from Gates’ reflection on mistakes and rebuilding relationships? How does his story reshape our understanding of success and its personal cost?
