'The Sandman' author Neil Gaiman rejects sexual assault claims, says allegations stem from 'false memories'

Acclaimed author Neil Gaiman is facing allegations of sexual assault from two women he was in consensual relationships with and is under investigation by police in New Zealand. The author rejected the claims and said that the allegations stem from “false memories”.

British news outlet Tortoise Media reported that two women have filed accusations of sexual assault against Gaiman. Tortoise has released a four-part podcast series detailing the incidents.

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According to the report, the first woman, identified as Scarlett, aged 23, alleges that Gaiman sexually assaulted her in February 2022 at his residence in New Zealand. She was employed as a nanny to her young son at the time. According to TortoiseGaiman asserted that consent was given.

The report stated that the second woman, identified as K, first met Neil Gaiman at a book signing in Sarasota, Florida, when she was 18 years old in 2003. K alleges despite her request for him not to do so due to a painful infection, “Gaiman penetrated her,” Tortoise Media stated.

Gaiman denies 'allegations'

Neil Gaiman responded by refuting the accusations of non-consensual sexual activity with the two women. He expressed distress over the allegations made by Scarlett and denied engaging in any unlawful behaviour with her. The incident involving Scarlett was initially reported to the New Zealand police, who initiated an investigation into the matter.

The report stated that Gaiman offered to cooperate with the New Zealand authorities regarding Scarlett's complaint, but they declined, citing their ongoing investigative process.

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In response to Scarlett's allegations, Gaiman informed Tortoise Media that he believes her claims stem from a medical condition related to “false memories.” However, Tortoise reported that Scarlett's medical records and history do not support this assertion.

Neil Gaiman, aged 63, is a highly successful author celebrated for his best-selling novels, comic books, and numerous film and television adaptations. His notable works include “The Sandman,” “Good Omens,” “Coraline,” and “Stardust,” among others. Recently, he served as an executive producer for the Netflix series “Dead Boy Detectives”.