Bill Gates and Paula Hurd—Closer look at their 'serious' relationship
What's the story
Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist, Bill Gates, finally spoke about his relationship with philanthropist Paula Hurd for the first time.
In an interview with the Today Show on Tuesday (US time), he called Hurd a "serious girlfriend" and said they are enjoying their time together.
The couple has been spotted at several events, including the 2024 pre-wedding celebration of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Here are details about their relationship timeline.
Common hobbies
'I'm lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula...'
Gates also revealed that he and Hurd have a common interest in sports, especially tennis.
"I'm lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula. We're having fun." "Going to the Olympics and lots of great things," the 69-year-old Gates said during the interview.
Last April, the duo even made their red carpet debut at an awards ceremony at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Past regrets
Gates expressed regret over his divorce from Melinda French
Notably, Gates has previously expressed regret over his divorce from Melinda French, with whom he was married for 27 years.
The couple shares three children—Phoebe Adele Gates, Rory John Gates, and Jennifer Gates—and their separation in 2021 surprised many.
Reports indicate that Gates's alleged affair with a Microsoft employee and his closeness to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were some of the reasons behind their divorce.
Personal insights
Gates's reflections on marriage with French
Despite the difficulties, Gates looked back fondly on his marriage with French.
He previously told The Times of London, "The divorce wasn't great. 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."
Since their separation, both Gates and French have moved on; while Gates is dating Hurd, French is now in a relationship with entrepreneur Philip Vaughn.
New beginnings
Who is Paula Hurd, Gates's new partner?
Hurd, whose maiden name is Paula Kalupa, was previously married to Oracle CEO Mark Hurd until his untimely death in 2019. The two were married for 30 years and have two daughters.
Now 62, Hurd is a philanthropist known for her work in education and healthcare.
This marks a new chapter in both Gates and Hurd's lives as they navigate their relationship.