Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has publicly acknowledged his relationship with Paula Hurd - describing her as his "serious girlfriend" in a recent interview.ow.
Gates, 69, who has largely remained private about his personal life following his divorce from Melinda French Gates in 2021, said he and Hurd are "having fun" and making the most of their time together.
"I'm lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula," he stated. "We're having fun, going to the Olympics and lots of great things."
Reflecting on his 27-year-long marriage with Melinda, Gates admitted that while their divorce had been difficult, he would not change the experience.
"The divorce wasn't great," he said. "Having those three kids, the work we were able to do together—even if I knew that it wouldn’t last forever, I would still do it again."
Despite their separation, the former couple continues to co-parent their three children and share family moments. "Melinda and I still see each other—we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events. The kids are doing well. They have good values," Gates noted.
During the conversation, Gates also reflected on his childhood and the role his parents played in shaping his future. "This year, I turn 70, Microsoft turns 50, and so I thought, OK, I should share what luck I had to have amazing parents, you know, the way they let me go out and hike and try new things," he said.
Gates' relationship with Hurd first made headlines in 2022, a year after his divorce. Hurd, a philanthropist and businesswoman, was previously married to Oracle CEO Mark Hurd until his passing in 2019.
Speaking about his current phase of life, Gates said he has moved forward. "I've moved past the divorce, and Melinda's doing well. I've got a lot of work that I love to do. So I'm not really complaining about anything," he remarked.
