Bill Gates publicly acknowledged having two extramarital affairs and apologized to Gates Foundation staff for his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling the association a major error in judgment that contradicts the foundation’s core values.

Admissions at Foundation Town Hall

During a staff meeting, Gates addressed recent revelations following the release of 2013 emails where Epstein claimed to be Gates’ right-hand man. Speaking candidly, according to recordings reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, Gates emphasized he witnessed nothing illegal during their interactions. He confirmed two affairs that Epstein later discovered, but stressed these relationships did not involve any of Epstein’s victims. Gates’ representatives have called Epstein’s claims about their relationship absolutely false.

Gates revealed he began meeting with Epstein in 2011, three years after Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor for prostitution. The Microsoft founder admitted he was not fully aware of the charges at the time and continued the relationship until 2014. He told staff that the presence of other prominent figures at their meetings made the situation feel normalized, though he now recognizes it as completely opposed to foundation values.

Travel and Association Details

The billionaire philanthropist disclosed he never visited Epstein’s private island but did fly on his private jet and met with him in Washington, New York, Germany, and France. Gates noted that his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, consistently expressed skepticism about the Epstein connection. He acknowledged that knowing what he knows now makes his past decisions significantly worse, particularly given evidence of Epstein’s ongoing criminal behavior beyond his 2008 conviction.

Foundation Reputation at Stake

Gates emphasized to staff that the foundation’s work depends heavily on reputation and public trust. He acknowledged that organizations and individuals can choose whether to partner with the foundation based on leadership conduct. A foundation spokesperson confirmed Gates holds twice-yearly town halls where he addresses staff-submitted questions. This session covered the Epstein files, artificial intelligence initiatives, and global health priorities. The spokesperson stated Gates spoke candidly and took full responsibility for his actions during the extensive question-and-answer session.