Phoebe Gates hints at new romance after split from Arthur Donald
Reports suggest that Phoebe Gates and her long-term partner, Arthur Donald, have ended their relationship.
The 22-year-old Gates and 26-year-old Donald are said to have parted ways, as reported by People. Us Weekly has attempted to solicit a statement.
Though neither of the former couple has officially confirmed their alleged separation, Gates appeared to imply she has already begun a new chapter.
“I’m currently involved with someone who, genuinely, isn’t on Instagram,” stated Phoebe, the youngest offspring of Bill and Melinda Gates, during the September 4th episode of her “Burnouts” podcast. “He removes the app, and it’s fantastic. It’s truly wonderful, and this is a completely novel experience for me. I’ve never dated anyone quite like him.”
Phoebe Gates and Former Partner Arthur Donald's Dating History
She elaborated, “I’ll say something like, ‘Alright, take a seat, pal, let me show you the latest video we just posted on the Phia account, because I poured my heart into creating this. You’re going to stay here and you’re going to watch it.’ And he responds with, ‘Understood.’”
Phoebe co-founded Phia, an application centered on fashion, alongside her friend and “Burnouts” cohost, Sophia Kianni.
“Truthfully, his absence from social media is incredibly refreshing,” Phoebe further commented.
Though Phoebe refrained from identifying her presumed new romantic interest, Donald maintains a presence on social media through a private Instagram profile.
Phoebe began her relationship with Donald, a grandson of Sir Paul McCartney, in October 2023. He was even present with Phoebe during her graduation from Stanford University the following year.
“My partner, Arthur, offered me a ride after the ceremony,” Phoebe wrote alongside a Nylon photo essay in June 2024. “I couldn’t imagine a more fitting conclusion. It marks the close of one period and the start of a new one, and it was truly special to share this moment of celebration with our loved ones.”
Phoebe Gates Reveals Partner Arthur Removes Her $20 Artwork During His Stays
Phoebe and Arthur, a child of Mary McCartney and Alistair Donald, maintained a discreet relationship for an extended period. Phoebe was initially unaware of Arthur’s prominent family background when they began their romance.
“Given my family’s intellectual inclinations, I was quite unacquainted with music,” she shared on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast in April. "My upbringing was more focused on technology, not musical subjects.”
Phoebe recounted that Arthur aimed to captivate her with his musical expertise and associations.
“He brought me to an Elton John performance, and Elton John appeared in a sequined tracksuit,” she remembered. “My reaction was, ‘Is Elton John homosexual?’ His whole family erupted in laughter, and now we’ve been together for nearly two years. Each time I encounter them, they playfully ask, ‘Oh, is Elton John gay?’”
