Best-selling British author Neil Gaiman has been accused of sexual misconduct by eight women, according to reports. Four of these women had previously made similar allegations.
Gaiman, known for his works like Good Omens, American Gods, and The Sandman, has been the subject of a cover story in New York Magazine detailing fresh accusations from the women. This follows the release of Tortoise Media’s podcast Master, which first reported on the claims in 2024.
Gaiman’s representatives have denied the allegations, asserting that any encounters between Gaiman and the women were consensual. In the New York Magazine article, one woman described an alleged encounter while babysitting Gaiman’s child, where he is said to have offered her a bath before joining her naked in the tub, leading to an assault.
The article also mentions that all of the accusers, at some point, engaged with Gaiman in a BDSM context, calling him “master” and maintaining communication. However, the women claim that prior consent for specific activities was not obtained. Gaiman’s representatives had earlier stated that BDSM activities, when consensual, are lawful.
In January 2023, a police report was filed accusing Gaiman of sexual assault, but the investigation was later dropped.
These allegations have impacted several of Gaiman’s projects. Good Omens season three will now end with a 90-minute episode without Gaiman’s involvement. Disney has paused its film adaptation of The Graveyard Book, while Netflix canceled Dead Boy Detectives. Despite the controversy, The Sandman season two and Anansi Boys are still expected to release this year.
The BBC has contacted Gaiman’s representatives for comment, as well as several companies involved with his projects.
