Neil Gaiman, a best-selling author known for works like “The Sandman” series and the novels “Good Omens” and “American Gods,” has responded to sexual assault allegations from two women, as reported by Tortoise Media. These claims surfaced in Tortoise’s four-part podcast “Master: the Allegations Against Neil Gaiman,” which was released on Wednesday (July 3).
Warning: Contains distressing content
The women described their experiences with Gaiman as involving “rough and degrading sex” and alleged that some of these encounters were non-consensual.
One accuser, 23-year-old Scarlett, who was employed as Gaiman’s nanny, alleged that Gaiman assaulted her in February 2022 in a bath at his residence in New Zealand, shortly after their first meeting. Gaiman countered these claims by stating to the media outlet that their interactions in the bath were consensual, involving cuddling and making out, and mentioned their brief sexual relationship spanned three weeks involving only digital penetration.
Scarlett further alleged that despite their consensual relationship, Gaiman also committed acts of non-consensual “rough and degrading penetrative sexual acts.” She recounted one particularly harrowing incident where the pain was so severe that she lost consciousness, describing it as “celestial.” According to her statement in the podcast reported by The Telegraph, when she pleaded for him to stop, Gaiman allegedly laughed, remarking that she “needed to be punished” and proceeded to use his belt on her. Gaiman has denied these accusations.
Read: White journalist criticised for pretending to be Black for racism book
The second accuser, referred to as K, met Gaiman in 2003 at a book signing in Florida when she was 18. She claims that their romantic relationship began when she was 20 and Gaiman was in his mid-forties. During their relationship, she alleges enduring rough and painful sexual encounters, which she did not want or enjoy. K recounted an incident where, despite her protests due to a urinary tract infection, Gaiman penetrated her, causing her intense pain and leading her to scream. Gaiman has refuted K’s allegations, expressing disturbance over the claims.
According to Tortoise Media, K did not file a police report, whereas Scarlett lodged a complaint with the New Zealand police in October 2022. In response to the complaint, Gaiman has said they did not accept his “offer of assistance”. However, New Zealand police indicated that their investigation was ongoing, noting several challenges including the location of all involved parties.
How To Be Books has reached out to representatives of Neil Gaiman for comment.
For more help or information regarding sexual harassment, assault and rape in the UK, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN.
Make a one-time donation
Make a monthly donation
Make a yearly donation
Choose an amount
Or enter a custom amount
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearlyAbout How To Be Books’ Editorial Process
We uphold a strict editorial policy that focuses on factual accuracy and relevance. Our content is meticulously reviewed by an experienced editor to ensure compliance with the highest standards in reporting and publishing. We avoid commissions and are explicit about any affiliate links and partnerships.
