Convicted CEO fraudster Elizabeth Holmes says life in lockup is ‘hell’ in first prison interview

Elizabeth Holmes, the once-celebrated founder of Theranos, has broken her silence in her first interview since being incarcerated at a federal prison in Texas. Holmes, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison for fraud and conspiracy, opened up about her experiences behind bars, her reflections on the past, and her hopes for the future. Now 41 and a mother of two, Holmes shared how her reality as a prisoner has been both emotionally shattering and transformative. Her story offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who once stood at the pinnacle of success but now grapples with the consequences of her actions.

Holmes is being held at the Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Bryan in Bryan, Texas, a facility known for its relatively low-security environment. Despite the less restrictive conditions compared to higher-security prisons, Holmes described the emotional toll of being separated from her family. Twice a week, she is allowed visitation with her partner, Billy Evans, and their two young children, William, 3, and Invicta, 2. However, the moments of reunion are bittersweet, as she must watch her loved ones leave through a secured glass door, a painful reminder of her confinement. Holmes admitted that these moments "shatter my world every single time," underscoring the deep emotional struggle she faces as a mother and partner behind bars.

Reflecting on her past, Holmes acknowledged the failure of Theranos, the blood-testing startup she founded, but maintained her stance of innocence. "I refused to plead guilty to crimes I did not commit," she said, emphasizing that while the company failed, failure does not equate to fraud. She also spoke about the challenges of being judged by people who have never met her, referencing the widespread public opinion shaped by media portrayals, including the Hulu series The Dropout, which chronicles the rise and fall of Theranos. Holmes described watching the series as "surreal" and "difficult," as it forces her to confront how others perceive her without truly understanding who she is. "It forces you to spend a lot of time questioning belief and hoping the truth will prevail," she said.

Despite the hardships, Holmes has found ways to advocate for change and support others during her incarceration. She shared her experience of trying to breastfeed her newborn while in prison, which led her to speak with the warden about creating private lactation rooms for incarcerated mothers. By 2023, the prison had established such spaces, a small but meaningful victory for Holmes in her efforts to improve conditions for fellow inmates. She also works as a reentry clerk, helping women prepare for their release and teaching French classes. These activities not only keep her occupied but also allow her to contribute positively to her community behind bars.

Holmes’s dedication to her goals remains unwavering, even in the face of her current circumstances. She expressed her commitment to continuing her work in healthcare technology upon her release, stating, "There is not a day I have not continued to work on my research and inventions." She emphasized her vision of making affordable healthcare solutions accessible to everyone, a mission that once drove Theranos but ultimately led to its downfall. Holmes’s resolve to pursue this dream, despite the skepticism and criticism she faces, highlights her resilience and unwavering belief in her abilities.

Looking ahead, Holmes is scheduled for release on April 3, 2032. While the road to freedom is long, she remains focused on her future and the chance to rebuild her life. Her interview serves as both a personal reflection and a call to action, as she advocates for the rights of incarcerated individuals, particularly mothers separated from their children. Holmes’s story is one of contrasts—of ambition and consequences, of failure and resilience—and it continues to captivate the public imagination. As she navigates her time in prison, Holmes’s words offer a glimpse into the complexities of a woman whose legacy is both fraught and fascinating, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for her and the impact she may still have on the world.