Bill Gates apologises to staff over Epstein links
Sydney Morning Herald
February 25, 2026
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Billionaire Bill Gates has issued a public apology to his staff following revelations about his past connections to Jeffrey Epstein, including admissions of affairs during his marriage to Melinda French Gates. In a statement, Gates acknowledged the pain caused by his actions and expressed regret for the trust issues this may have created within Microsoft and beyond. The apology comes amid growing scrutiny of his professional relationships and the broader implications for corporate leadership.
Gates' ties to Epstein were first brought to light through leaked documents from Epstein's estate, which revealed financial arrangements between the two men spanning over a decade. While Gates has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing or impropriety in these dealings, critics argue that his proximity to Epstein raises ethical concerns, particularly given Epstein's history of legal troubles and allegations of misconduct.
The fallout has sparked internal discussions at Microsoft, with some employees expressing discomfort over their boss's past associations. A spokesperson for the company emphasized that Gates' role as a technical advisor remains focused on environmental and technological innovation, but his personal conduct continues to overshadow his professional contributions.
This situation highlights the challenges of reconciling the actions of influential figures with their public personas, particularly in industries where trust is critical. As questions about accountability and transparency persist, the long-term impact on Gates' reputation and legacy remains uncertain.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026