Neil Gaiman, renowned author and creator of several critically acclaimed works, faces serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The accusations surfaced after a New York Magazine article reported claims from multiple women, including a former caretaker in upstate New York, who alleged Gaiman pressured her into a sexual relationship in exchange for housing. Despite these allegations, Gaiman firmly denies any wrongdoing, asserting that all his relationships were consensual.
The allegations against Gaiman have prompted significant attention and investigation. According to the New York Magazine article, eight women spoke out, with six doing so on the record. All the women claimed to have had consensual sexual relationships with Gaiman but noted his preference for rough sex and BDSM, activities they had not always consented to beforehand. One woman, who worked as a nanny for Gaiman's family in New Zealand, alleged non-consensual sexual acts occurred when she was 22.
Gaiman has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that he has never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity. He stated:
“I’m far from a perfect person, but I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever.” – Neil Gaiman
The allegations have also led to professional repercussions for Gaiman. Notably, he stepped back from his involvement in the Amazon drama "Good Omens." Additionally, there have been industry implications, with three screen adaptations of his works being canceled or paused. These include Netflix's "Dead Boy Detectives," the third season of "Good Omens," and a Disney adaptation of "The Graveyard Book." However, no streaming services have confirmed that these decisions were directly linked to the allegations.
In response to the evolving situation, Tortoise Media conducted a podcast investigation that brought further allegations to light in July. Two women accused Gaiman of sexual assault during this investigation. Despite this, Gaiman's representatives stated he had no involvement in the podcast's production.
A complaint against Gaiman was made to New Zealand police in January 2023; however, the investigation was eventually dropped. Throughout this period, Gaiman has reflected on his past actions and relationships, acknowledging personal shortcomings while standing firm on his innocence:
“I was emotionally unavailable while being sexually available, self-focused and not as thoughtful as I could or should have been” – Neil Gaiman
“At the same time, as I reflect on my past – and as I re-review everything that actually happened as opposed to what is being alleged – I don’t accept there was any abuse. To repeat, I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone.” – Neil Gaiman
Gaiman's representatives also defended his preference for BDSM activities, emphasizing the legality of such practices among consenting adults:
“sexual degradation, bondage, domination, sadism and masochism may not be to everyone’s taste, but between consenting adults, BDSM is lawful” – Neil Gaiman's representatives
Despite these defenses, the controversy continues to unfold. Gaiman acknowledged the need to address the situation publicly:
“I’ve now reached the point where I feel that I should say something” – Neil Gaiman