Renowned author Neil Gaiman, celebrated for his works spanning both adult and children’s literature, has denied allegations of non-consensual sexual activity made by multiple women. The 64-year-old British author, known for acclaimed titles such as American Gods, Coraline, and The Sandman, addressed the accusations after detailed reports were published by New York Magazine and discussed in a Tortoise Media podcast.

The allegations, made by eight women, include claims of assault, abuse, and coercion. Four of these cases were further elaborated in the podcast broadcast in July 2024. Gaiman responded with a public statement expressing shock and dismay over the allegations, asserting his innocence.

In his statement, shared on Tumblr, Gaiman said, “I have watched these stories circulate online for months with horror and dismay. As I read through this latest collection of accounts, there are moments I half-recognize and moments I don’t, descriptions of things that happened sitting beside things that emphatically did not happen.”

The author was emphatic in his denial of the allegations, stating, “I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever.”

Gaiman acknowledged that he had reviewed messages exchanged with his accusers and described them as evidence of consensual relationships. He stated, “They read like two people enjoying entirely consensual sexual relationships and wanting to see one another again.”

However, Gaiman admitted to shortcomings in his personal behavior, reflecting on his emotional availability and his treatment of others. “I was emotionally unavailable while being sexually available, self-focused, and not as thoughtful as I could or should have been,” he said. “I was obviously careless with people’s hearts and feelings, and that’s something that I really, deeply regret.”

The allegations primarily pertain to events that occurred when Gaiman was in his 40s or older, living in various locations, including the UK, the US, and New Zealand.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, Gaiman’s professional associations have remained silent. His agent, his recent publisher Bloomsbury, and streaming platforms Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, which are associated with Gaiman-related projects, have not issued any public statements regarding the matter.

The timing of the allegations coincides with a period of heightened attention on Gaiman’s work. Several of his stories have been adapted for television and film, bringing his creative output into mainstream media. American Gods was adapted into a television series, and The Sandman has been turned into a successful Netflix series.

Gaiman is one of the most influential authors of contemporary fantasy, with a career spanning decades and a fan base across generations. While his statement reflects regret for past personal behavior, it also firmly denies any involvement in non-consensual acts.

As the allegations continue to draw attention, the literary and entertainment industries await further developments. Gaiman’s reputation, built on decades of storytelling, faces a critical moment, with questions about accountability and public perception taking center stage. For now, the allegations and Gaiman’s response remain a focal point in discussions about power dynamics and consent in creative industries.