Neil Gaiman | Photo credit: Andy Kropa
Neil Gaiman has been accused of serious sexual assault by two women with whom he was in a consensual relationship. The allegations, spanning two decades, have been formally reported to New Zealand police.
These allegations came to light for the first time. Tortoise‘Podcast “Master: The Allegations Against Neil Gaiman”. This four-part series follows women’s accounts of rough and abusive sex with the author, which they allege was not always consensual.
63 year old bestselling author The Sandman, Good Omens, And American Godshas denied any allegations of non-consensual sex. He argues that the New Zealand Police did not accept his offer of assistance regarding one of the complaints in 2022, which, according to him, reflects a lack of charges.
Contrary to Gaiman’s claims, New Zealand police have said they have “made numerous attempts to speak to key individuals as part of this investigation and these efforts are ongoing,” adding that a variety of factors must be considered, including the locations of all parties.
Scarlett, 23, alleges that Gaiman sexually abused her within hours of their first meeting in February 2022 at his home in New Zealand, where she worked as a nanny for his child. Scarlett claims Gaiman participated in rough and degrading sexual acts within their otherwise consensual relationship. Tortoise has reviewed contemporaneous messages and notes, and spoken to friends who support Scarlett’s allegations.
Gaiman says he and Scarlett only “cuddled” and “made love” in the shower, and that these actions established consent. He says all subsequent interactions, including digital penetration, were consensual.
The second woman, identified as Kay, was 18 when she met Gaiman at a book signing event in Sarasota, Florida, in 2003. She began a romantic relationship with him when she was 20, while Gaiman was in his mid-40s. Kay alleges that she submitted herself to rough and painful sex that she “neither wanted nor enjoyed,” including one incident when Gaiman had sex with her despite her refusal due to a painful infection. Gaiman denies any unlawful behavior with Kay and is upset by her allegations.
Tortoise Gaiman understandably believes Kay’s allegations are motivated by regret over their relationship and that Scarlett was suffering from a condition involving false memories, a claim not supported by her medical records.
