Bill Gates’ 3 Kids Won’t Inherit His Billions — He Wears $10 Watch & Waits in Line for Fast Food
- Bill Gates is one of the richest people in the world.
- Despite his billion-dollar net worth, he loves staying humble, wearing a $10 watch, and waiting in line for fast food.
- However, the renowned philanthropist and father of three shocked many when he said his children wouldn't inherit his fortune.
Bill Gates is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest and most successful individuals globally, known for his significant contributions to technology and philanthropy.
Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1955, Gates developed an early interest in computers and programming while attending Lakeside School. Gates co-founded Microsoft with his childhood friend Paul Allen after dropping out of Harvard University.
Bill Gates attends the Telluride Film Festival 2019 on August 31, 2019, in Telluride, Colorado. | Source: Getty Images
Today, Gates holds the esteemed co-chair position at the "Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation," a renowned philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing global challenges.
In the photo capturing this moment, Gates was seen wearing a red sweater, gray pants, and black sneakers while patiently waiting for his burger order.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gates hails from a supportive family. His late father, William H. Gates Sr., was a prominent attorney and co-chair of the "Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation." In contrast, his late mother, Mary Gates, held notable roles as a schoolteacher, University of Washington regent, and chairwoman of United Way International.
As of July 5, 2023, Gates boasts a remarkable net worth of $118.9 billion, making him the fifth richest person in the world, according to the Forbes Billionaire List. His vast wealth and influence enable him to make substantial contributions to various philanthropic endeavors, continuing his commitment to giving back to society and making a positive impact on a global scale.
Inside Bill Gates' Down-to-Earth Way of Living & Why His Children Wouldn't Inherit His Billions
Gates has three children who have made their own mark. Jennifer Gates Nassar, the eldest at 27, is a graduate of Columbia University and an accomplished professional show jumper. In 2021, Jennifer married fellow equestrian Nayel Nassar, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2023, making Gates a proud grandfather.
Rory Gates, 23, stands out for his academic achievements. He graduated from the University of Chicago with a double major and a master's degree, completing his studies in an impressive four years. Rory's commitment to gender equality and his passion for feminism has garnered admiration, with his mother, Melinda, expressing pride in his compassionate and well-read nature.
Meanwhile, Phoebe Gates, 20, is studying at Stanford University after completing high school in 2021. Known for her outspokenness on social and political issues, Phoebe has also showcased her fashion sense and love for reading. She shares a close bond with her parents and has attended public events with her father.
Despite being one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, Gates has made a surprising decision regarding his children's inheritance. His three children won't receive billions of dollars. In fact, they will only be left with a minuscule portion of his fortune. This revelation adds a sense of intrigue as to why Gates has chosen this path.
In interviews and public statements, the Microsoft co-founder has expressed his belief that leaving vast sums of money to his kids wouldn't benefit them. He wants them to forge their own paths and not be burdened or treated differently because of their inherited wealth.
Instead, Gates plans to provide his children with an exceptional education, covering all expenses and ensuring their healthcare needs are taken care of. However, he firmly believes they should find their own careers and work for their income, just like anyone else.
This decision reflects Gates' commitment to philanthropy and his belief that excessive wealth can have adverse effects. He strongly advocates for charitable giving and has already donated a significant portion of his fortune to the "Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation."
The American business magnate has developed a reputation for his down-to-earth lifestyle and frugal spending habits. Despite his staggering billion-dollar net worth, he refuses to overspend on extravagant items such as clothes or jewelry. He has been seen wearing a modest $10 wristwatch and opts for simple attire.
Gates attributes his frugality to his spending instincts formed during high school. While he may not splurge on personal luxuries, he does have a fondness for books, which he buys without hesitation. Additionally, he enjoys the luxury of travel, and although he owns a plane, he recognizes that material possessions and excesses have their limits.
The businessperson is also known for his diligence and hardworking nature, pulling all-nighters and only taking quick catnaps to recharge himself.
Gates' humble nature extends beyond his spending habits. He remains engaged in ordinary activities like washing dishes after dinner and driving his children to school.
Despite his immense success in the technology world, Gates acknowledges that his children view him as lacking a modern perspective. He stays connected with them through various technology platforms, including Instagram and WhatsApp, which his daughters prefer for communication.
However, Gates avoids bars as he finds people to be more aggressive in approaching him there. Instead, he embraces ordinary experiences, as witnessed when he patiently waited in line at Dick's Drive-In in Seattle, much to the delight of fellow customers.
In the photo capturing this moment, Gates was seen wearing a red sweater, gray pants, and black sneakers while patiently waiting for his burger order. This humble act garnered widespread attention and appreciation for his relatable behavior, with many praising his genuine demeanor and contrasting it with ostentatious displays of wealth.