Bill and Melinda Gates Announce Divorce After 27 Years of Marriage

After nearly three decades of marriage, Bill and Melinda Gates announced their decision to divorce.

Bill Gates, who co-founded Microsoft, is one of the richest people in the world, having amassed an estimated $124 billion net worth, according to Forbes. He and his wife have become leaders, donating much of that fortune to their philanthropic organization the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Recently, the pair has become influential in combatting COVID-19 globally, in addition to running various massive public health initiatives. Bill and Melinda Gates also have three children, Jennifer, Phoebe, and Rory.

The couple began dating in 1987, when Melinda went to work at Microsoft. The Gates' shared further insights into their decision to separate on Twitter. "After a great deal of thought and a lot of work on our relationship, we have made the decision to end our marriage," the couple wrote.

The Gates' also referenced continuing their foundation's work. "Over the past 27 years, we have raised three incredible children and built a foundation that works all over the world to enable all people to lead healthy, productive lives," they said. "We continue to share a belief in that mission and will continue our work together at the foundation, but we no longer believe we can grow together as a couple in this next phase of our lives."

Last year, Bill Gates stepped down from Microsoft's board to spend more time on the Gates Foundation. He and Melinda are co-chairs and trustees of the organization, which launched in 2000.

We will continue updating this post as more information about the divorce becomes available.

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