Two Women Accuse Neil Gaiman of Sexual Assault

Two residents of New Zealand have accused British author Neil Gaiman, known for his novels "American Gods" (2001) and "Stardust" (1998), of sexual assault. Local police are conducting an investigation, Tortoise Media has reported.

One of the victims, a 21-year-old woman, claims that Gaiman, then 62 years old, hired her as a nanny for his child. According to her, Gaiman raped her "within the first few hours of their acquaintance." She noted that she later engaged in "consensual relations" with the author but added that Gaiman allegedly committed "harsh and degrading sexual acts" towards her afterwards.

The other complainant states that she entered into a romantic relationship with the author in 2005 and experienced similar treatment, although in some instances she consented to intimacy.

Gaiman himself told the portal that he has never engaged in any actions for which his partners did not give prior consent. He also assured that there was "nothing illegal" in his behavior.

New Zealand law enforcement confirmed to Tortoise Media that an investigation into the mentioned incidents is underway.

Neil Gaiman (born 1960) is a British author known for his works in the fantasy, comics, and children’s genres. He is a winner of the Hugo and Nebula Awards for his contributions to science fiction and has received the Newbery Medal for his significant contributions to American children's literature. His works have been adapted for the screen multiple times.