Melinda Gates Confirms She is Not Engaged to Jon Du Pre: Relationship Status Update

Melinda Gates Is Not Engaged to Jon Du Pre After Rumors No Longer Dating

Melinda Gates. Cindy Ord/Getty Images

Melinda Gates was recently seen wearing a large diamond ring, sparking rumors that she was engaged to Jon Du Pre. However, a representative quickly shut down the speculation. In a statement to Page Six on Monday, April 22, the spokesperson clarified that Melinda is not engaged and is no longer dating Jon Du Pre.

Gates and Du Pre, 70, first made headlines in 2022 when they were seen together at a basketball game. The former Fox News correspondent has three children with his ex-wife Gina Larsen: Kasey, Jonny, and Jessie. On the other hand, Melinda has three kids with her ex-husband Bill Gates.

After announcing her divorce from Bill, 68, in May 2021, Melinda's relationship with Du Pre became her first public romance.

"We have decided to end our marriage after much consideration and effort to improve our relationship," they stated in a joint message, mentioning the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "Throughout the past 27 years, we have raised three amazing children and established a foundation that operates globally to help individuals live healthy and fulfilling lives."

Melinda Gates Is Not Engaged to Jon Du Pre After Rumors No Longer Dating

Jon Du Pre. Courtesy of Jon Du Pre/Instagram

The statement ended by saying that they both still believe in the foundation's mission and will work together, but they have decided they can't grow as a couple in the next phase of their lives. They are asking for privacy and space as they start this new chapter.

The pair finalized their divorce in August 2021, three months after announcing their separation. Melinda has since shared insights on what caused the end of their marriage.

“It wasn’t a single moment or event,” she explained to CBS Mornings in March 2022. “There reached a point where I realized our relationship wasn't healthy and I couldn't trust it anymore.”

Bill reflected on Melinda's remarks after two months, expressing on Today, "It was a challenging situation. We had many wonderful moments in our marriage. Our children, the foundation, the happiness we shared. It's a major transition. I understand that every divorce is unique, but it's a total shift. We were a team, we evolved together, and now things have changed. We are no longer husband and wife."

Melinda Gates Is Not Engaged to Jon Du Pre After Rumors No Longer Dating

Bill Gates. JC Olivera/WireImage

The billionaire explained how he and Melinda were able to move forward after their split.

"It's sad that the divorce happened. I know I caused a lot of pain to my family. It was a tough year, but I'm glad we're all moving forward now," he explained. "I made mistakes and I take full responsibility for them. I don't think it's helpful to get into details right now, but I did cause pain and I feel really sorry about that."

Editor's P/S:

Melinda Gates' recent appearance with a diamond ring sparked engagement rumors, but her representative swiftly dispelled them. The former couple's divorce, finalized in 2021, was the culmination of a gradual deterioration in their relationship, as revealed by Melinda's comments about trust issues. Bill Gates acknowledged his role in the breakdown of their marriage, expressing remorse for causing pain to his family. Despite their split, both parties remain committed to their shared philanthropic endeavors through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Melinda's relationship with Jon Du Pre was a brief one, and she has since chosen to focus on her personal growth and the well-being of her family. The article highlights the challenges and complexities of marriage and separation, emphasizing the importance of trust and mutual respect. It also sheds light on the resilience of individuals who navigate significant life transitions, finding ways to move forward with dignity and a commitment to their values.