Listen Live
Bill and Melinda Gates walk in the Congr

Source: AFP / Getty

Bill and Melinda Gates announced Monday they’re ending their marriage after 27 years, but would remain committed to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the largest charitable foundations in the world.

The Microsoft co-founder and his wife tweeted out their mutual decision with similar statements.

“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 ask for space and privacy for our family as we begin to navigate this new life.”

Gates, who once was the world’s richest man has a net worth of a reported $130 billion. This is likely one of the most high-end divorces in US history with no prenup, according to TMZ. Although, Melinda has agreed to no spousal support and there is a separation agreement in place, the tabloid site noted.

The Seattle-based Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is the most influential private foundation in the world, with an endowment worth over $50 billion. Mostly due to contributions from Warren Buffett and others throughout the years. Started in 2000, the foundation has focused on global health and development in some of the world’s most impoverished areas .

The Gates’ split is the latest among power couples in the tech industry. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and MacKenzie Scott finalized their divorce in 2019. Scott retained a 4% stake in Amazon, worth more than $36 billion.

Gates stepped down as Microsoft’s CEO in 2000 and since scaled back his involvement in the company he started with Paul Allen in 1975. He transitioned out of a day-to-day role in Microsoft in 2008 and served as chairman of the board until 2014.