J.K. Rowling criticizes the literary world’s silence on sexual assault allegations against Neil Gaiman, pointing out the lack of outrage compared to past cases.
J.K. Rowling recently criticized the literary community for its silence regarding the sexual assault allegations against writer Neil Gaiman. On Monday, Rowling took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her concern. She pointed out that the literary world had been outspoken about Harvey Weinstein’s crimes before his conviction but has not reacted strongly to multiple accusations against Gaiman from young women. According to Rowling, the accusations against Gaiman are strikingly similar, and many were made by women who had never met him.
Rowling’s tweet sparked debates online, with some users pointing out that Gaiman had previously written “pervy” stories that seemed questionable in hindsight. Others observed that such stories were once accepted as art, but are now causing alarm in light of recent accusations.
The allegations against Neil Gaiman include claims made by Scarlett Pavlovich, a former family babysitter, who said that Gaiman pressured her into a bath and joined her uninvited, leading to a non-consensual act. Another accuser, Kendra Stout, stated that Gaiman engaged in BDSM practices with her without discussing boundaries, leaving her uncomfortable and unsettled.
Gaiman has denied all allegations, calling them “false and deplorable.” His representatives argue that some of the accusations are based on “false memories.” Despite Gaiman’s rebuttal, the accusations have already impacted his work, such as delays in the production of Good Omens.