Neil Richard MacKinnon Gaiman is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and screenplays. His works include the comic book series The Sandman and the novels Good Omens, Stardust, Anansi Boys, American Gods, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book.
A recent New York Magazine cover story has brought to light allegations of sexual misconduct against Neil Gaiman, the renowned author of The Sandman and Coraline. Multiple women have spoken on the record, sharing their accounts of alleged experiences with the writer.
In July, Tortoise Media first reported accusations against Gaiman, unveiling claims from two women and releasing a six-part podcast titled Master. The podcast explored allegations from five women, many of whom opted for anonymity or pseudonyms. New York Magazine’s investigative piece, “There Is No Safe Word,” has since expanded on these claims, featuring interviews with eight women, four of whom were part of the podcast.
One accuser, Scarlett Pavlovich, detailed her encounters with Gaiman, which she says began after meeting his ex-wife, Amanda Palmer, in New Zealand. Pavlovich alleged that while babysitting for the family, Gaiman subjected her to unwanted advances and sexual assault, including a disturbing incident involving a claw-foot tub. Pavlovich claims the misconduct continued during her time working for the family.
The article also details a hotel encounter in Auckland where Pavlovich alleges Gaiman initiated sexual activity while his child was present. She described her reaction as one of shock and disbelief. Despite these allegations, Pavlovich remained in contact with Gaiman for some time, later signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and receiving $9,200 in multiple payments. She filed a police report in January 2023, though authorities have since closed the case.
Another woman, identified only as Caroline, shared her experience as a caretaker at Gaiman’s property in New York. She alleged inappropriate advances, including an incident where Gaiman placed her hand on his genitals while his son was in bed with them. Caroline later signed an NDA and received $300,000 after initially requesting a higher amount.
Kendra Stout, who met Gaiman at a book signing at 18, claimed she was raped during a trip in 2007, despite repeatedly refusing his advances. Another accuser, Katherine Kendall, alleged Gaiman attempted to assault her on his tour bus after she had clearly expressed her unwillingness to engage in sexual activity. Years later, she received $60,000 from Gaiman, reportedly for therapy.
Representatives for Gaiman have denied all allegations, asserting that his interactions were consensual. They also addressed the BDSM-related claims, stating that such practices, when consensual, are lawful. However, the women involved argue that consent and boundaries were neither established nor respected.
The fallout from these allegations has impacted several of Gaiman’s projects. While Season 2 of Netflix’s The Sandman and Amazon’s Anansi Boys series are still slated for release, other productions, including Good Omens and The Graveyard Book, have faced delays or changes.
As the story unfolds, the entertainment industry and fans await further developments and responses from involved parties.
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