Bill Gates has revealed that disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein allegedly attempted to blackmail him over extramarital affairs during his marriage to Melinda French Gates.

The Microsoft co-founder made the claims during closed-door testimony before the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday, June 10, as lawmakers continue investigating Epstein’s network of powerful associates.

In his prepared remarks, Gates admitted he “should have never met” Epstein and described the situation as a “grave error in judgement.”

Gates Claims Epstein Used Personal Information Against Him

According to Gates, Epstein became aware of sensitive details about his personal life and later attempted to use that information to pressure him into reconnecting.

“I learned Epstein had become aware of sensitive information about my personal life, including the fact that I had been unfaithful in my marriage,” Gates stated.

“As the public can now see… Epstein was working to use information about my infidelities — in addition to many lies that he layered on top — to pressure me to re-engage with him.”

Gates insisted the effort failed and said his affairs had “nothing to do” with his interactions with Epstein.

Why Gates Says He Met Epstein

Gates explained that he was introduced to Epstein in 2011 through individuals connected to his philanthropic work. At the time, he believed Epstein could help raise billions of dollars for global health initiatives.

“I was introduced to Epstein in 2011 through people I trusted in my professional and philanthropic work,” Gates told lawmakers.

According to Gates, their meetings focused on charitable giving structures and potential donor networks tied to global health projects.

However, Gates said he eventually realized Epstein’s promises led nowhere.

“It was clear that no one in the group was interested enough to move forward,” he explained. “At that point, I concluded Epstein would never deliver on his promises.”

Gates said he stopped communicating with Epstein in 2014.

Gates Denies Any Knowledge Of Criminal Conduct

During his testimony, Gates strongly denied witnessing or participating in any illegal behavior connected to Epstein.

“I have never victimized anyone,” Gates said. “While he may have sought to foster a personal relationship, I was never interested in that and never reciprocated.”

He also stressed that he never visited Epstein’s private island, Florida mansion, or ranch.

Still, Gates acknowledged he failed to fully understand the extent of Epstein’s crimes at the time they first met.

“I accepted the introduction without applying the scrutiny I should have,” he admitted.

Congress Investigates Epstein Connections

James Comer, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, said lawmakers want more information about Gates’ relationship with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

“We just want to know about his relationship with Mr. Epstein and Ms. Maxwell,” Comer told reporters before the testimony.

Comer also clarified that lawmakers are not accusing Gates of criminal wrongdoing.

“No one’s accusing Bill Gates of any wrongdoing and I certainly appreciate him coming in voluntarily,” he said.

Gates Says The Experience Changed Him

Gates described the situation as a painful lesson and said he regrets any credibility his association may have given Epstein.

“His behavior was antithetical to all my efforts to contribute to a world where everyone has a chance to live a healthy and productive life,” Gates said.

“If the time I spent with Epstein lent him any credibility, I am deeply sorry.”

The billionaire added that the controversy has made him far more cautious about who he associates with moving forward.