Neil Gaiman, author of 'Sandman,' refutes sexual assault claims made in New York Magazine article

Renowned fantasy novelist Neil Gaiman has refuted claims of sexual misconduct made by several women, as detailed in a recent New York Magazine article. On his official site, Gaiman firmly stated he has "never participated in non-consensual sexual encounters" and remarked that the women's narratives include "elements I vaguely recall and others I do not, alongside descriptions of events mixed with those that categorically did not occur."

Efforts are underway by CNN to obtain additional remarks from Gaiman's team. Gaiman, whose literary repertoire of nearly 50 books encompasses works adapted into television and film such as "Good Omens," "Coraline," and "The Sandman," initially faced accusations from two women through a Tortoise Media podcast investigation in July. By August, Tortoise reported additional allegations of sexual misconduct, coercion, or abuse against him. Four accusers also shared their stories with New York Magazine. CNN has yet to independently verify these allegations, which reportedly span from 1986 to 2022 across the US, UK, or New Zealand.

Gaiman, without addressing each claim individually, stated, "Upon reassessing what truly transpired versus what is alleged, I reject the notion of any abuse. To reiterate, I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone." He further asserted, "Some of these dreadful tales being circulated never transpired, while others have been so exaggerated they are unrecognizable from the truth. I am ready to be accountable for any errors I made, but I refuse to forsake the truth or accept being mischaracterized. I will not confess to actions I did not commit."

Despite the allegations emerging in July, Gaiman's television and film ventures continue. Prime Video's "Good Omens" will conclude with a special episode rather than a full third season, and Gaiman will forgo an executive producer credit, as reported by Variety. The status of another Gaiman project, "Anansi Boys," remains unannounced by the company. CNN is awaiting a response from Prime Video.

Concurrently, Disney has halted its adaptation of "The Graveyard Book" due to various factors, including the allegations, as reported by IndieWire in September. CNN has reached out to Disney for comment. Meanwhile, Netflix anticipates the release of "The Sandman" season two, produced by Warner Bros. Discovery subsidiaries, later this year. A Netflix spokesperson was unavailable for immediate comment.