Melinda French Gates and Bill Gates are officially divorced.
The public was shocked to learn that the philanthropic power couple called it quits in May, when they shared that news with the world. As of August 2, their divorce was finalized after approval by a King County judge.
Many have speculated the divorce between the two powerhouses would be complicated because of the sheer volume of money and assets involved, but that doesn't seem to be the case. Melinda is moving on without spousal support and declined to change her last name.
Melinda French Gates didn't ask for more than what she was entitled to in her divorce from Microsoft founder Bill Gates. She declined spousal support. The couple's children are all adults: 18-year-old Phoebe, 21-year-old Rory, and 25-year-old Jennifer.
Melinda will also continue to go by Melinda French Gates. She elected not to change her name back as a condition of the divorce.
When Bill and Melinda shared that they were going their separate ways, they vowed to continue to work together on the causes they hold dear.
"Over the last 27 years, 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 shared in a statement.
"We continue to share a belief in that mission and will continue our work together at the foundation, but we no longer believe we can grow together as a couple in this next phase of our lives."
However, Mark Suzman, CEO of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, revealed earlier this month that the former spouses formulated an agreement in case they couldn't continue working together. Melinda will step down if, after two years, either she or Bill decides they can no longer work together.
"They have repeatedly made clear their joint commitment and expectation to remain long-term partners and co-chairs," Mark shared.
"However, as an additional step, they have agreed that if after two years either one of them decides that they cannot continue to work together, Melinda will resign as co-chair and trustee," he continued.
"In such a case, Melinda would receive personal resources from Bill for her philanthropic work. These resources would be completely separate from the foundation's endowment, which would not be affected."
