From SRP author Tracy Cooper-Posey:
In light of recent allegations against Neil Gaiman, I find myself grappling with the complex relationship between an author’s personal conduct and their creative work.
This isn’t the first time such issues have surfaced; in 2023, I discussed similar dilemmas in a blog post titled “What do you do when the creators of your favorite stories misbehave?“
Summary of Allegations Against Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman, renowned for works like The Sandman and American Gods, has recently faced serious allegations of sexual assault and misconduct.
As of January 2025, multiple women have come forward with accusations, including non-consensual sexual acts and coercion. These allegations have led to significant professional repercussions for Gaiman, including the halting or cancellation of several projects:
- Good Omens (Season 3): Originally renewed for a final season, the series will now conclude with a single 90-minute episode, with Gaiman stepping back from production.
- The Graveyard Book: Disney has paused the film adaptation of this work.
- Dead Boy Detectives: Netflix has canceled this series, though it’s unclear if the decision is directly related to the allegations.
Gaiman has denied all allegations, asserting that any encounters were consensual. Investigations are ongoing, and no legal verdict has been reached at this time.
Reflecting on Past Discussions
In my previous post, I explored the challenges readers face when an author’s misconduct comes to light. Key considerations included:
- Separating Art from Artist: Can we appreciate a creative work independently of its creator’s personal actions?
- Moral and Ethical Implications: Does supporting an author’s work equate to endorsing their behavior?
- Historical Context: How do we approach works created in different eras with differing societal norms?
I shared personal experiences, such as my inability to revisit Marion Zimmer Bradley’s works after learning of her abusive actions, and my discomfort with certain scenes in Desmond Bagley’s novels that reflect outdated moral standards.
My Perspective on the Gaiman Situation
The allegations against Neil Gaiman are deeply troubling, particularly given their serious nature. While he maintains his innocence and investigations continue, the situation raises significant concerns.
Personally, I find it challenging to separate an author’s actions from their creative output, especially when the allegations involve harm to others. My instinct is to distance myself from their work, as was the case with Marion Zimmer Bradley.
However, each situation is unique, and the absence of a legal verdict adds complexity to the decision-making process. It’s a deeply personal choice, influenced by individual values, experiences, and the specifics of each case.
Invitation for Reader Perspectives
I recognize that this is a nuanced and personal issue, and I’m interested in hearing your thoughts. How do you approach reading the works of authors accused of misconduct? Do you remove their books from your reading list, or can you separate the art from the artist? Your insights and experiences are valuable to this ongoing conversation.
Tracy Cooper-Posey
SRP Author
