Neil Gaiman facing calls to be stripped of honorary doctorate, amidst accusations of sexual assault

Since July 2024, multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct have been filed against the best-selling author Neil Gaiman, including one by a student at the University of St Andrews. Eight of the women who reported the abuse were interviewed by New York Magazine, published on 13 January 2025. Gaiman denies these allegations.

Neil Gaiman was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of St Andrews in 2016 for his work as a “versatile, challenging writer, and generous champion of literacy.” The St Andrews student, who worked as a nanny for Gaiman’s son before joining the University, stated that she asked University Principal Dame Sally Mapstone to strip Gaiman of his honorary degree at a meeting held in December 2024. It was reported that while Principal Mapstone showed sympathy for what the student had endured, the board was indecisive, stating that the University would need “evidence of prosecution” before deciding to rescind his degree.

The University Policy Handbook states: “The University has a responsibility to prevent and respond to any behaviour which is contrary to the values and ideals of our shared community which requires a commitment to treat everyone with dignity, courtesy and respect. As such, the University will not tolerate any form of unacceptable behaviour or abuse of violence towards any community member. Any allegations of this nature will be looked into promptly, and if appropriate, disciplinary action will be taken.”

Since the meeting in December, at least three more women have come out with allegations of sexual violence and abuse against Gaiman. Gaiman has been dropped by his publisher Dark Horse Comics, and several of his upcoming film and TV projects have been delayed or cancelled.

On 14 January, Gaiman published a statement on his website stating,“I’m far from a perfect person, but I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever.”

“As I reflect on my past – and as I re-review everything that actually happened as opposed to what is being alleged – I don't accept there was any abuse.”

He added: “I am prepared to take responsibility for any missteps I made. I’m not willing to turn my back on the truth, and I can't accept being described as someone I am not, and cannot and will not admit to doing things I didn't do.”

In February, the St Andrews student opened proceedings to sue Neil Gaiman and his wife Amanda Palmer for sexual abuse and violating human trafficking laws while she worked as their live-in nanny, claiming £5.6 million in damages. Gaiman has moved to dismiss the lawsuit, citing counter-evidence and that US courts have no jurisdiction over allegations arising in New Zealand, which is where the alleged abuse is said to have taken place. Gaiman and Palmer are currently undergoing divorce and custody proceedings.

A University spokesperson stated: "We applaud the courage of all survivors of sexual abuse, and especially those who have felt able to speak out about it. Our priority is the welfare of our students, whom we are providing support and counselling. We will continue to monitor this case with concern and close interest.”

Image by University of St Andrews