In his first substantial public statement addressing the controversy in nearly a year, acclaimed author Neil Gaiman has vehemently denied multiple sexual assault allegations, labelling them as "simply untrue" and asserting he is the target of a deliberate "smear campaign." The 65-year-old writer, famous for works such as American Gods and The Ocean at the End of the Lane, broke his silence on Monday evening via a detailed post on his official Facebook author page.
Gaiman's Firm Rebuttal and Claims of Evidence
Gaiman stated unequivocally, "The allegations against me are completely and simply untrue. There are emails, text messages and video evidence that flatly contradict them." He expressed frustration that these accusations, particularly the more sensational ones, have been "spread and amplified by people who seemed a lot more interested in outrage and getting clicks on headlines rather than whether things had actually happened or not." The author emphasised his belief that the truth would eventually emerge, despite what he described as a media "echo chamber" that often ignored contradictory evidence.
Background of the Allegations and Professional Fallout
The allegations first gained significant public attention in July 2024 when they were detailed in a podcast by Tortoise Media. This was followed by a New York Magazine investigation in January 2025, to which Gaiman previously responded by insisting he had "never engaged in nonconsensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever." To date, nine women have come forward with accusations, including Scarlett Pavlovich, the former nanny to Gaiman and his wife, musician Amanda Palmer. The couple, who have a son together, are currently undergoing divorce proceedings.
The professional repercussions for Gaiman have been substantial. Dark Horse Comics, one of his publishers, has severed ties with him, while DC Comics, publisher of his seminal Sandman series, cancelled a planned reprint. Additionally, a stage adaptation of his children's book Coraline was scrapped last year following the initial claims.
Moving Forward: Writing Amidst Controversy
Despite the intense scrutiny and condemnation from some quarters, with many fans publicly withdrawing their support, Gaiman revealed he has returned to writing. He is reportedly close to completing a new novel. In his Facebook post, he expressed gratitude to those who have stood by him, saying, "Thank you again to so many of you for your belief in my innocence and your support for my work. It has meant the world to me." This statement marks a pivotal moment as Gaiman attempts to reclaim his narrative amidst ongoing legal and personal challenges.
