Neil Gaiman Dropped by Dark Horse Comics Amid Growing Sexual Abuse Allegations

NEW YORK — Neil Gaiman, the acclaimed British author behind popular works such as “Coraline” and “The Sandman,” faces serious allegations of sexual assault and harassment from eight women, as detailed in a recent New York Magazine article. In response, Gaiman has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

As a result of these allegations, Dark Horse Comics has decided to cancel its illustrated series based on Gaiman’s novel “Anansi Boys.” The announcement, made via X, comes after the release of the seventh of eight planned editions earlier this month. “Dark Horse takes seriously the allegations against Neil Gaiman and we are no longer publishing his works,” the statement indicated, although the publisher’s website continues to feature Gaiman’s existing titles.

The allegations initially surfaced last summer during a podcast by Tortoise Media, gaining broader attention with the detailed accounts revealed in January. Following the release of the article, Gaiman expressed his perspective in a blog post, stating, “Like most of us, I’m learning, and I’m trying to do the work needed.” He maintained, however, that he does not accept the allegations of abuse.

Gaiman’s literary representation has also shifted significantly, with two major publishers, HarperCollins and W.W. Norton, announcing they will not be publishing his works in the future. Other publishers, including Bloomsbury, have yet to provide official statements on the matter.

Although Gaiman’s office did not respond to inquiries, he is still listed on his website as represented by the Stephen Barclay Agency, despite his name being absent from the agency’s current client list. Requests for clarification from the agency went unanswered.

In related news, Disney has paused plans for an adaptation of Gaiman’s “The Graveyard Book.” Meanwhile, Netflix remains on track for the release of a second season based on “The Sandman.”