Neil Gaiman's Publisher Dark Horse Cancels Upcoming Publications Following Sexual Assault Allegations
Image: nrkbeta, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Neil Gaiman's upcoming works, including the comic adaptations of his Anansi Boys series, have been canceled by publisher Dark Horse Comics following sexual misconduct allegations made against Gaiman.
The publisher made the announcement on social media, stating, "Dark Horse takes seriously the allegations against Neil Gaiman and we are no longer publishing his works." This decision comes after a cover story by New York Magazine revealed claims from eight women accusing the author of sexual assault and misconduct. Gaiman has denied the accusations, writing on his blog, "I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever."
What are the allegations?
The allegations first surfaced in July 2024, when a podcast titled “Master” reported accusations from five women, four of whom also participated in the New York Magazine article. These women claim Gaiman engaged in sexual activities without proper consent, often involving rough sex and BDSM. One of the accusers, a former babysitter for Gaiman's child, alleged an incident where the author joined her naked in a bath and attempted to assault her.
While Gaiman acknowledged his past mistakes, stating that he was "emotionally unavailable while being sexually available" and that he should have been more considerate in his relationships, he continues to deny any criminal behavior. In a statement, he said, "I’m not willing to turn my back on the truth, and I can’t accept being described as someone I am not, and cannot and will not admit to doing things I didn’t do."
Film and TV projects impacted by allegations
In the wake of these allegations, Gaiman's involvement in several film and television projects has been affected. The Anansi Boys comics were to be a continuation of Gaiman's novel series, a spin-off of American Gods. The series had already been adapted for radio and television, with a TV version from Amazon expected to debut later this year, although it’s unclear how the allegations will impact the show. However, the comic series will no longer be published by Dark Horse, which confirmed the cancellation of the collected volume as well.
Meanwhile, Good Omens season three, also based on Gaiman's work, will now conclude with a 90-minute episode, with Gaiman no longer involved. Disney has paused production on The Graveyard Book, and Netflix's Dead Boy Detectives was canceled, although it's uncertain if this is related to the allegations.
These developments mark a significant turning point in Gaiman's career, as his works, including The Sandman, Coraline, and American Gods, have become hugely popular through adaptations. The fallout from the allegations continues to reverberate through the entertainment industry, with further projects potentially affected.
The author, best known for his fantasy novels and graphic novels, has been a prominent figure in both literature and film. However, with these allegations his reputation is facing serious scrutiny. Gaiman has yet to comment on the latest cancellations and the ongoing impact on his professional life.
