Neil Gaiman Denies Sexual Assault Allegations: ‘I’ve Never Engaged in Non-Consensual Sexual Activity With Anyone. Ever’

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Neil Gaiman has addressed allegations made against him in a New York Magazine article about sexual assault, stating on his personal blog that he has never been involved in any form of non-consenting sexual activity at any point in time.

In a statement released Tuesday, the author acknowledged his shortcomings in managing personal relationships. He admitted to being emotionally distant while still being sexually active, self-centered, and lacking thoughtfulness. However, he strongly denied any accusations of sexual assault, stating that he won’t compromise the truth, and can’t abide by being mischaracterized, refusing to admit to actions he didn’t perform.

In July, Tortoise Media initially reported sexual assault allegations against Neil Gaiman made by two individuals. They subsequently produced a six-part podcast titled “Master,” delving into the accusations of five women. However, New York Magazine became the first significant media outlet to substantiate the full scope of these accusations against Gaiman in their article.

In an article titled “There Is No Safe Word,” published by New York Magazine, reporter Lila Shapiro interviewed eight individuals who shared similar experiences with author Neil Gaiman. Four of these women also took part in Tortoise’s podcast. The accusers speaking to New York Magazine included a babysitter for Gaiman and his ex-wife Amanda Palmer’s child, a caretaker for Gaiman’s Woodstock, New York property, a fan who initially met the author at the age of 18, and a woman claiming he attempted an unwanted sexual advance on his tour bus. Several of these women claimed that Gaiman had a predilection for rough sex and BDSM practices without prior consent.

Ever since The Tortoise podcast dropped, I’ve been adamantly refuting any accusations leveled against me, maintaining that all my interactions were consensual. Now, in a freshly penned blog post, I’ve offered what seems to be my most extensive response yet to these allegations.

Following Neil Gaiman’s controversial report in July, several of his film and television ventures have experienced setbacks. The third season of “Good Omens” on Amazon Prime Video will now conclude with a single 90-minute episode, with Gaiman no longer involved in the production process. Production for Disney’s movie adaptation of “The Graveyard Book” has been halted, and Netflix has canceled “Dead Boy Detectives.” However, it remains uncertain if these decisions are linked to the allegations against him. In contrast, “The Sandman” Season 2 is still slated for release this year on Netflix, along with Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation of “Anansi Boys.

Read Gaiman’s full statement below.

For several months, I’ve been following the online tales about me with a mixture of horror and sadness. I’ve held my peace until now, partly because I respected those who were sharing their experiences, and partly to avoid fueling more speculation due to misinformation. I’ve generally preferred privacy, and lately, I’ve felt that discussing personal matters on social media is inappropriate. However, I’ve come to a point where I feel it’s necessary to speak up.

As I delve into this new compilation of narratives, there are instances where I feel a faint sense of familiarity mixed with unfamiliarity, stories about events that seem to align with things that undeniably did not occur in my life. Let me clarify, I may not be a flawless individual, but I have never been involved in any form of non-consensual sexual activity – not once, ever.

After revisiting our past conversations, I noticed some interactions that were later labeled as abusive. However, these messages appear just as they did when I initially read them – they show two individuals engaged in entirely consensual romantic exchanges, expressing a desire to continue their relationship. At the time, these interactions seemed positive and mutually enjoyable from both perspectives.

In hindsight, I recognize that there were many opportunities where I could have shown more care and consideration. I was capable of giving love, yet I failed to fully engage emotionally. My actions were often self-centered, and I didn’t always act with the sensitivity and thoughtfulness I should have. Unfortunately, I was not careful with people’s feelings, a fact that I deeply regret. It was a selfish period in my life where I prioritized my own needs above others’. I became too engrossed in my personal journey and neglected the experiences of those around me.

Over the past few months, I’ve taken a deep introspective journey, examining my identity and the impact I’ve had on others.

Similar to many others, I’m on a journey of learning and growth, putting in the necessary effort each day. I recognize that this is not a quick fix; it requires time and the right support. I am optimistic that with the assistance of kind-hearted individuals, my development will continue. Although not everyone may trust or be interested in me, I will remain dedicated to my progress, for myself, my family, and those dear to me. I aim to prove worthy of their trust, as well as that of my audience.

Concurrently, pondering over my past experiences and comparing them to the accusations, I find no evidence of abuse. Let me clarify again that I have never been involved in any form of unwanted sexual activities with anyone.

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Simultaneously, while contemplating my past events versus what is being claimed, I see no signs of abuse. To reiterate, I’ve always refrained from participating in non-consensual sexual encounters with anyone.

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Reflecting on my history and examining the facts rather than the allegations, there was no abuse, I assure you. In other words, I have never been part of any non-consensual sexual act.

Certain accounts being shared currently may be entirely fabricated, while others have been significantly twisted from the original events, rendering them unrecognizable as fact. I am ready to own up to any mistakes I’ve made. I refuse to ignore the truth and I cannot abide by being misrepresented, nor will I concede to actions I didn’t perform.

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2025-01-15 00:46