Scarlett Pavlovich, a 22-year-old drama student, met musician Amanda Palmer on the streets of Auckland in June 2020. Captivated by Palmer’s charisma, Pavlovich struck up a friendship with the artist, who is known for her candid discussions surrounding feminism and sexuality. Over time, as their friendship deepened, Palmer invited Pavlovich into her life and occasionally asked her to assist with errands and childcare.
However, the dynamic shifted dramatically in February 2022 when Pavlovich was invited to babysit for Palmer and her estranged husband Neil Gaiman. This seemingly innocent arrangement spiraled into allegations of sexual misconduct involving Gaiman, who has faced accusations from multiple women. The evening began with a casual dinner, but after a few hours, the situation escalated to grave allegations of sexual assault made by Pavlovich against Gaiman.
Details reported indicate that after an uncomfortable encounter in a garden bathtub, Gaiman allegedly assaulted Pavlovich in various disturbing ways, including instances where a young child was present. Following these events, Pavlovich, who had been striving for a stable life and support, found herself re-experiencing trauma from her past and struggling profoundly with her mental health.
In subsequent months, after reflecting on her experiences, Pavlovich filed a police report accusing Gaiman of sexual assault. Despite her bravery in coming forward, she faced added distress upon learning that Palmer, a self-proclaimed advocate for survivors of assault, declined to provide testimony when approached by law enforcement.
As the allegations drew public attention, Pavlovich connected with other women who have faced similar experiences with Gaiman, fostering a sense of community among survivors. Meanwhile, Gaiman’s career remains largely intact, with upcoming projects still being released, despite the controversy haunting him.
Pavlovich’s journey underscores significant issues of consent, the responsibilities of those in power, and the devastating effects of sexual violence. It’s crucial for survivors to find their voices and seek support, ultimately fostering a community that champions healing and justice.
The unfortunate events surrounding Scarlett Pavlovich illustrate the complexities of personal relationships, especially between those within creative spheres. As she embarks on her new path studying English literature at the University of St. Andrews, there remains hope for her recovery and empowerment through education. The story also illuminates the importance of believing survivors and holding accountable those accused of misconduct.