Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates testified before the House Oversight Committee on June 10-11, 2026, acknowledging his association with Jeffrey Epstein as a "grave error in judgment," while his ex-wife Melinda French Gates separately addressed the Epstein connection in media interviews. The closed-door deposition revealed Gates' regret over meeting the convicted sex offender, disclosing Epstein had blackmailed him over extramarital affairs, though he maintained no knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities. Meanwhile, French Gates criticized systemic failures that allowed Epstein's crimes and confirmed their divorce was partly influenced by the association. The testimonies form part of a broader congressional investigation into Epstein's network.
Gates admitted cutting ties with Epstein after the financier failed to deliver promised charity funding, but Epstein later used personal information about Gates' affairs for coercion attempts. Epstein's former assistant Lesley Groff testified simultaneously, describing Epstein as a "master manipulator." Calendar entries and communications from 2011-2013 were examined, showing Gates met Epstein for philanthropic introductions. French Gates stated Epstein "could have been stopped" with proper justice system intervention. Huanqiu+2
The deposition occurred amid growing scrutiny of high-profile Epstein connections, with Gates appearing voluntarily alongside Groff's testimony. Gates' legal team included a former House Oversight Committee counsel. The audio-recorded session's transcript will be publicly released, potentially setting procedures for future testimonies from Epstein-linked figures. Investigators are examining whether Epstein's network enabled his crimes post-2008 conviction. Tagesschau.de+2
Melinda French Gates revealed in interviews that Epstein's association with Bill contributed to their divorce. Now focused on women's empowerment through Pivotal, she reflected on recognizing Epstein's true nature early. Her June 13 comments emphasized societal reckoning needs, while Bill's testimony detailed personal consequences of the Epstein ties. The Guardian+2
The hearings mark a pivotal accountability moment for Epstein's victims, with Gates expressing hope his testimony would aid justice. French Gates' advocacy highlights systemic reform needs, while congressional investigators anticipate further subpoenas. The case underscores challenges in addressing power dynamics between elites and criminals exploiting such connections. BBC News+2