A pivotal factor that may have spurred this divorce is Bill's association with the deceased and disgraced magnate, Jeffrey Epstein.
For an extended period leading up to the divorce announcement, Melinda Gates had been diligently exploring options and consulting with legal representatives to proceed with the dissolution of her matrimonial ties to Bill Gates. Information from trustworthy sources and scrutinized legal documentation revealed that the notion of divorce had been brewing since 2019, when initial contact with lawyers was made.
After an enduring relationship of over 27 years, during which they co-founded one of the most significant charitable organizations globally, the Gates made public their decision to part ways.
Shortly thereafter, the contents of Melinda's divorce petition emerged in the US media. In it, she declared the marriage to be "irretrievably broken" and stated that "spousal support is not necessary." The division of their substantial assets would be determined by the separation agreement. The Gates, who have three adult children, would navigate this process without minor dependents.
The Journal pointed out a possible catalyst for the breakup - Bill Gates' connection with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a tycoon who faced ignominy and met his demise in prison in 2019.
Epstein had been arrested on charges of s*xually abusing and exploiting numerous teenage girls at his opulent abode in Manhattan, New York, as well as his residence in Palm Beach, Florida, and his property in the Virgin Islands.
According to reports in the American press, Bill Gates had multiple meetings with Epstein, and on one occasion, he lingered at the latter's New York residence until late hours.
Through spokespersons, the billionaire consistently maintained that these meetings revolved around philanthropic matters and expressed regret, acknowledging that engaging with Epstein was an error in judgment.
The Journal's account revealed that as far back as 2013, Melinda had expressed her discomfort with Epstein to her husband. Despite this, both Bill Gates and employees of their foundation continued to interact with the now-deceased tycoon in the following years.
