Author Neil Gaiman Sued for Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking by Former Nanny

Neil Gaiman, the renowned British author, and his estranged wife, musician Amanda Palmer, are facing a $7 million federal lawsuit filed by former nanny Scarlett Pavlovich. The case, filed in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, and New York, accuses Gaiman of many sexual assaults and both Gaiman and Palmer of human trafficking.

Background to the Allegations

Pavlovich claims she met Amanda Palmer in Auckland, New Zealand, in 2020, when she was homeless. Palmer invited Pavlovich to their home on Waiheke Island, where she helped with errands, childcare, and cleaning before becoming the couple’s nanny. When Pavlovich was 22 years old at the time.

According to the lawsuit, Gaiman’s sexual attacks began in February 2022 and have continued since, with Pavlovich feeling unable to leave due to financial reliance and promises from Gaiman to assist her writing career.

Palmer’s Alleged Involvement

According to the lawsuit, when Pavlovich told Palmer about the assaults, Palmer stated that more than a dozen women had previously accused Gaiman of similar behavior. The lawsuit also claims that Amanda Palmer deliberately assisted the assaults by bringing Pavlovich to Gaiman while aware of his intentions.

Legal Action and Demands

The lawsuit wants at least $7 million in damages and alleges violations of federal human trafficking laws. Due to uncertainty about the couple’s current homes, Pavlovich’s attorneys have filed lawsuits in numerous states.

Gaiman’s Response and Its Impact on His Career

Gaiman has publicly refuted any allegations of nonconsensual sexual conduct. In a statement, he stated, “I have never had non-consensual sexual behavior with anyone. Ever.”

Following these claims, many of Gaiman’s career actions have been at risk. Dark Horse Comics announced that it would stop its illustrated series based on Neil Gaiman’s novel “Anansi Boys.” Disney delayed a planned version of “The Graveyard Book,” while Netflix terminated “The Sandman” series, which was set to finish after the second season.

Previous Allegations

These lawsuits follow earlier allegations in which several women accused Gaiman of sexual misconduct. In July 2024, five women accused Gaiman of sexual assault and abuse, with full accounts published in several media sources.

Conclusion

The legal proceedings are still going on, and representatives for Gaiman and Amanda Palmer have declined to speak further. The claims have had serious professional and personal impacts on both persons.