Renowned British author Neil Gaiman, celebrated for his work in fantasy and science fiction, faces new allegations of sexual misconduct from eight women, four of whom had previously come forward. These claims were detailed in a recent New York Magazine cover story, which revisits and expands upon accusations initially reported by Tortoise Media in 2024.
Gaiman, whose works such as Good Omens, American Gods, and The Sandman have gained critical acclaim and popular television adaptations, has denied the allegations through his representatives. They have described the interactions as consensual, but the accusers have shared troubling accounts that suggest otherwise.
Allegations Resurface
In July 2024, Tortoise Media’s investigative podcast Master reported accusations from five women, alleging sexual assault and misconduct. This week, New York Magazine presented additional claims, citing interviews with eight women. Four of these women had also participated in Tortoise’s podcast, while four others brought forward new allegations.
One woman, a former babysitter for Gaiman’s child, alleges that he invited her to bathe in his garden, joined her in the tub unclothed, and then sexually assaulted her. Others reported engaging in activities characterized by BDSM dynamics, alleging that specific boundaries and consent were not explicitly discussed or agreed upon beforehand.
While the women acknowledged continuing to interact with Gaiman and addressing him as “master” during these encounters, they contend that the experiences often crossed into non-consensual territory.
Gaiman’s representatives, addressing the BDSM aspect, previously told Tortoise Media that “sexual degradation, bondage, domination, sadism, and masochism may not be to everyone’s taste, but between consenting adults, BDSM is lawful.”
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Impact on Productions
The fallout from these allegations has had significant repercussions on Gaiman’s projects across various media platforms.
- Prime Video has restructured Good Omens season three, concluding it with a single 90-minute episode, excluding Gaiman from further involvement.
- Disney has halted production on its adaptation of The Graveyard Book.
- Netflix has cancelled Dead Boy Detectives, though the link to these allegations remains unclear.
- Despite these developments, season two of The Sandman is still slated for release on Netflix, and Prime Video’s Anansi Boys adaptation remains in production.
The BBC reached out to Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney for comments on how these allegations might influence their collaborations with Gaiman.
Legal and Industry Response
In January 2023, a police report was filed against Gaiman alleging sexual assault, but the investigation was later dropped. Gaiman’s publishers, including Headline, have declined to comment on the latest revelations.
Leeds Playhouse, which is set to host a musical adaptation of Gaiman’s Coraline this April, previously affirmed its commitment to the production. However, the venue has been approached for a response in light of the new allegations.
Looking Ahead
While Gaiman’s representatives continue to dispute the claims, the allegations have cast a shadow over the author’s career and creative contributions. As the story unfolds, the focus remains on the voices of those coming forward and the broader implications for accountability within the entertainment and literary worlds.