Co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, has apologised to staff at the Gates Foundation for his previous association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, describing it as a “huge mistake to spend time with him.
The billionaire made the remarks during a town hall meeting on Tuesday, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
Gates’ connection to Epstein first became public in October 2019, with further revelations emerging after the US Department of Justice released documents related to the late financier.
Among the disclosures was an email in which Epstein alleged that Gates had contracted a sexually transmitted infection and sought antibiotics to secretly administer to his then-wife, Melinda French Gates — a claim Gates has denied.
The documents also outlined meetings between Gates and Epstein, including dinners, phone calls and discussions concerning philanthropy. According to the report, Gates expressed regret for introducing foundation executives to Epstein.
He acknowledged having two extramarital affairs but maintained that he was not involved in any of Epstein’s criminal activities, stating that he met the women independently through social and business engagements.
“One of the women was a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and the other a Russian nuclear physicist,” he said.
“I apologize to other people who are drawn into this because of the mistake that I made,” Gates said, according to a recording reviewed by the Journal.
Gates explained to foundation employees that he first met Epstein in 2011 without adequately reviewing his background, despite Epstein having previously pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor for prostitution. He said their interactions continued until 2014, including meetings abroad, but added that he “never stayed overnight” or visited Epstein’s island.
The association reportedly persisted even after Melinda voiced reservations. In a recent interview, she said the latest document release revived “painful times” in her marriage, adding that she was “so happy to be away from all the muck”.