By Melinda Gates, 59, was spotted without her eye-catching diamond ring as she reunited with her billionaire ex-husband Bill Gates, 68, in New York City on Friday. The former couple came together for the first time in eight months to celebrate their eldest daughter Jennifer’s graduation from medical school.
Jennifer, 27, who matched for residency at Mt. Sinai’s pediatrics program, appeared thrilled to have her parents put their differences aside for her special day. She was all smiles as she walked into the upscale Manhattan restaurant Marea with her younger sister Phoebe, 21.
The family reunion comes just weeks after Melinda sparked romance rumors by stepping out with a stunning diamond ring. However, she chose to leave the attention-grabbing accessory at home to keep the focus on Jennifer’s accomplishment.
Phoebe, whose 21st birthday party last September marked the last time the family was publicly seen together, joined her parents and sister for the celebratory lunch. The exes arrived at the elegant dining spot in separate cars, ready to spare no expense for the occasion.
Marea, known for its pricey menu, offers dishes such as a $18 side of arugula, $47 pasta entrees, a $61 swordfish dish, a $39 asparagus appetizer, and caviar for a staggering $285. However, the hefty price tags likely didn’t faze Melinda and Bill, who boast fortunes of $11.2 billion and $130 billion, respectively, according to Forbes.
Melinda looked chic in a floral mid-length dress, paired with orange heels, a white purse, and a yellow cardigan draped over her shoulders. Jennifer glowed in an all-white outfit, proudly wearing her Mount Sinai silver stole. Bill kept his look professional with a navy suit and purple tie, while Phoebe followed her mother’s floral theme in a purple dress and black coat.
After enjoying the lavish lunch, the family went their separate ways. Jennifer, who recently announced her residency match, will remain a New York resident for the next few years. Phoebe, currently studying human biology at Stanford University, has also been spending significant time in the city.
Since her divorce from Bill, Melinda has maintained a close bond with her daughters, often taking Phoebe on trips around the world. However, her recent outings with a large diamond ring led to speculation about a potential engagement to her former boyfriend, Fox News anchor Jon Du Pre. Melinda quickly shut down the rumors, with her spokesperson confirming to Page Six, “Melinda is not engaged and is no longer dating Jon Du Pre.”
Despite their estranged relationship, Melinda and Bill continue to be devoted parents. Jennifer, who knew from a young age that she wouldn’t inherit her parents’ billions, still enjoys the luxuries that come with having wealthy parents. She recently moved into a $51 million penthouse in Tribeca with her husband, Olympic showjumper Nayel Nassar, and their baby girl, Leila.
While Bill has pledged to give away the majority of his wealth to avoid spoiling his children, his eldest daughter’s strong work ethic and the arrival of his first grandchild may have influenced his decision to purchase the lavish penthouse for her growing family.
