In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has been caught on camera engaging in some lighthearted ‘dad dancing’ at the grand opening of the opulent $3.7 billion Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas. The billionaire, who recently finalized his divorce from his wife of 27 years, Melinda Gates, was seen enjoying the performance of pop star Justin Timberlake with his new girlfriend, Paula Hurd.
The event, attended by A-list celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Ivanka Trump, and Tom Brady, showcased a visibly amorous Gates and Hurd, who were described as “very much in love” by eyewitnesses. The couple, seated high up at the venue, appeared to relish Timberlake’s performance, with Gates waving his arms around and pulling Hurd closer.
The public appearance comes in the wake of Gates’ high-profile divorce from Melinda, with whom he shares a vast fortune and a multi-million-dollar property empire. The divorce was finalized in August, with reports indicating that it was an amicable split, devoid of spousal support.
Gates, now romantically linked to Paula Hurd, widow of former Oracle CEO Mark Hurd, seemed to have found a new lease on life. Mark Hurd tragically lost his battle with cancer in October 2019, leaving Paula to navigate the world as a widow and philanthropist. Reports suggest that Paula and Bill’s paths first crossed when the Hurd couple met Bill and Melinda Gates, forming a connection that evolved into a romantic relationship.
Despite initial rumors surfacing in February about Gates’ newfound love interest, it wasn’t until the grand opening of Fontainebleau Vegas that the couple’s relationship was publicly confirmed. An insider revealed that they have been inseparable for over a year, debunking the mystery surrounding their connection.
The timing of Gates’ public appearance and affectionate display with Hurd has stirred conversations about the trajectory of his personal life. Attendees at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference in 2021 reported a candid “off the record” Q&A session where Gates reportedly took responsibility for the demise of his marriage, admitting to having “messed up.”
Nevertheless, at the Fontainebleau Hotel opening, Gates appeared to have turned a corner in his love life, joining other celebrity couples like Cher and Alexander “A.E.” Edwards, who were also spotted sharing intimate moments at the event. The hotel, now the tallest occupied building in Nevada, hosted a star-studded VIP bash, with guests trying their luck at the casino and enjoying Justin Timberlake’s performance.
As Bill Gates embraces this new chapter in his life, the public eye remains fixated on his evolving personal narrative, one that unfolds against the backdrop of high-profile events and the glittering lights of Las Vegas.