Bill Gates was a standout guest at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s wedding welcome party in Venice on June 26, attending alongside girlfriend Paula Hurd—and fans are now speculating wildly about the absence of Elon Musk from the glitzy invite list. Here’s the full story.

The Best-Dressed Stars and Tech CEOs at the Breakthrough Prize Awards -  Business Insider

✨ A High-Profile Appearance

Bill and Paula arrived elegantly dressed in coordinated black. He wore a classic tuxedo; she stunned in an off-the-shoulder dress with pearl jewelry and studs . Their public chemistry reflects a relationship that’s grown steadily since going public in February 2023 .

Bill Gates enjoys date night with Oracle widow girlfriend Paula Hurd at  2024 Breakthrough Prize ceremony, as he and fellow tech giant Elon Musk rub  shoulders with Hollywood's A-list including Kim Kardashian,

The welcome party was a star-studded event, attended by the likes of Oprah, Tom Brady, Orlando Bloom, and the Kardashian–Jenner clan—yet Elon Musk, ex–fiancé of attendance’s spotlight, was notably missing

Elon Musk talks AI at 10th annual Breakthrough Prize Ceremony

🤔 Why Was Musk Snubbed?

Social media is abuzz with speculation: some believe Bill’s appearance with a “serious girlfriend” may reflect a shift in elite circles, where Musk’s high-profile presence and controversial statements contrast sharply with Bill’s more composed public profile. Others suggest that this could reflect deeper dynamics among tech billionaires, perhaps signaling realignment of alliances in Silicon Valley’s most exclusive networking spaces.

Who Is Bill Gates's Girlfriend Paula Hurd?

❤️ Bill & Paula: All Grown Up

Bill describes himself as “lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula”—a declaration he made on Today in February 2025 . Paula Hurd, widow of Oracle CEO Mark Hurd, is a philanthropist, parent, and event professional with deep roots in charitable work

Who is Bill Gates' Girlfriend, Paula Hurd and Who is Her Former Husband,  Mark Hurd? Everything to Know

The couple share public wins—from attending the Paris Olympics to making their red carpet debut in April 2024—and now this wedding event adds another milestone to their evolving relationship

Bill Gates dating Paula Hurd, widow of Oracle CEO Mark Hurd | news.com.au —  Australia's leading news site for latest headlines

🌐 Musk’s Omission: Meaningful or Coincidence?

Some fans say the choice of guests reflects a “refined, low-drama” vibe—a contrast to Musk’s unpredictable media presence.

Others simply chalk it up to personal and logistical reasons—Musk may have had prior commitments or chose not to attend.

Yet others view it as another chapter in the public unraveling of billionaire relationships—where old grudges, public alignments, and discretion determine who stands next to whom.

 

Bill Gates dating Oracle CEO Mark Hurd's widow, Paula

 

🔮 What’s Next?

Bill and Paula will likely continue appearing at major humanitarian and social events. Musk’s future attendance at similar functions remains uncertain—but this absence could hint at shifting tides among tech’s elite.

Meet Paula Hurd: Bill Gates' New Girlfriend

For now, the Venice party stands as a celebration of new beginnings—for both the bride and groom… and for Bill and Paula.

Who is Bill Gates' Girlfriend, Paula Hurd?

📝 What do you think?
Is Musk’s absence from the guest list significant—or just another scheduling footnote?
👇 Let us know in the comments!