Neil Gaiman Allegations: Multiple Women Accuse ‘Sandman’ Author of Sexual Assault
Multiple women have accused Neil Gaiman, the renowned author of The Sandman and Coraline, of sexual assault in a New York Magazine cover story titled “There Is No Safe Word”. The article, written by Lila Shapiro, builds on allegations initially reported by Tortoise Media in July through a six-part podcast, Master. The podcast detailed accusations from five women, while the New York Magazine piece expands the scope, featuring interviews with eight women, four of whom also participated in the podcast.
One accuser, Scarlett Pavlovich, claims Gaiman sexually assaulted her while she was babysitting for his child. She alleges that Gaiman joined her naked in a garden tub and assaulted her despite her protests. Pavlovich also describes other incidents, including an alleged attempt at anal sex using butter as a lubricant and demands for degrading acts. She claims the behavior persisted during her time as a babysitter and states she eventually signed an NDA, receiving $9,200 in separate payments. Although Pavlovich maintained contact with Gaiman and initially reassured him of consent, she filed a police report in January 2023. The case has since been closed.
Another accuser, identified as Caroline, alleges that Gaiman engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior while she worked as a caretaker on his property. She recounts an incident where Gaiman allegedly placed her hand on his genitals in the presence of his child. Caroline signed an NDA after receiving $300,000 to leave the property. Gaiman's representatives deny her claims, asserting that Caroline initiated the encounters and that no child was present during any alleged activity.
Additional allegations include Kendra Stout, who claims Gaiman raped her in 2007 despite her protests, and Katherine Kendall, who alleges he attempted to assault her in 2012 on his tour bus. Kendall reportedly received $60,000 from Gaiman for therapy, which he described as compensation for "damage."
Gaiman has strongly denied the accusations, asserting that all interactions were consensual. His representatives argue that while BDSM practices may not align with everyone’s preferences, they are lawful when consensual. However, the women allege that no prior discussions or agreements regarding such activities took place.
The allegations have impacted several of Gaiman’s projects. Prime Video’s Good Omens Season 3 will conclude with a single 90-minute episode, reportedly without Gaiman's involvement. Disney has paused production on The Graveyard Book, and Netflix canceled Dead Boy Detectives, though it remains unclear if these actions are connected to the allegations. Despite this, The Sandman Season 2 and Anansi Boys are still scheduled for release this year.
Post a Comment