Bill Gates says Jeffrey Epstein tried to blackmail him over infidelities

Bill Gates testified before the U.S. Congress that Jeffrey Epstein knew about his affairs with his former wife Melinda and attempted to use that information to force a reconciliation. Gates affirmed he had cheated on Melinda, denied any illegal conduct, and said he ended all contact with Epstein in 2014. He described the relationship as a “huge mistake” and noted that Epstein’s attempts to leverage the “painful secrets” were unsuccessful. The testimony follows the release of Epstein’s files that revealed new details of his friendship with Gates, including email exchanges and unpublished photographs.

Gates also addressed rumors that he had privately funded antibiotics for Melinda’s sexually transmitted infection and clarified that he never witnessed any criminal activity by Epstein. The former Microsoft founder’s statements come amid ongoing public scrutiny of the late financier’s network of influential contacts.