Neil Gaiman, the acclaimed author of “The Sandman” and “Good Omens,” has released a statement denying allegations of sexual misconduct made against him nearly two years ago. This marks Gaiman’s first public comments on the matter in almost a year, a period during which he has largely retreated from the spotlight following significant professional setbacks, including being dropped from various TV and film projects linked to his works. These projects include the concluding season of Amazon’s “Good Omens,” the upcoming “Anansi Boys” series, and the halted adaptation of “The Graveyard Book” by Disney.
In his recent statement, Gaiman dismissed the allegations as part of a “smear campaign” and asserted that substantial evidence supporting his innocence has been overlooked or ignored. He emphasized that the claims made against him are entirely false, recalling how he had previously responded to allegations from his former babysitter by describing her as a “fantasist” and sharing WhatsApp messages that purportedly contradict her statements.
Additionally, Gaiman and his estranged wife, Amanda Palmer, are facing a lawsuit filed by Scarlett Pavlovich, who has accused them of sexual assault and trafficking. Gaiman has publicly denied the accusations and shared details from a court declaration asserting that any encounters with Pavlovich were consensual. In his prior commentary, Gaiman acknowledged some emotional failings in his relationships without conceding any wrongdoing in terms of consent.
Throughout his statement, Gaiman expressed gratitude for the support he has received from fans during this turbulent period. He highlighted the importance of truth and the need for careful journalism, acknowledging that much of the media coverage he faced fell short in representing the available evidence.
Amidst these challenges, Gaiman mentioned that he has turned his focus back to writing, describing a new book he is working on as potentially his largest project since “American Gods.” He shared that while 2023 has been “strange and occasionally nightmarish,” he finds solace in his roles as a father and a storyteller.
As the world grapples with various issues, Gaiman remains optimistic about the inherent goodness in people, thanking supporters for their belief in his innocence and encouragement for his creative endeavors. His commitment to creating art, especially during trying times, serves as a hopeful reminder of the power of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.