Famous fantasy author Neil Gaiman has forcefully rejected allegations of sexual assault made by former family nanny Scarlett Pavlovich, asserting that their physical interactions were consensual.
This latest development comes from a new court filing in which Gaiman vehemently denies the claims made against him and presents detailed evidence to support his side of the story.
Pavlovich’s Lawsuits Against Gaiman and the Alleged Abuse
Scarlett Pavlovich, a 26-year-old art history student, filed several lawsuits against Neil Gaiman last month, accusing him of sexual assault and emotional distress.
Pavlovich is seeking $7 million in damages from the 64-year-old author, with the lawsuits being filed in Massachusetts, New York, and Wisconsin, where Gaiman currently resides.
His ex-wife, Amanda Palmer, is also named in connection with the allegations.
These accusations have attracted considerable attention due to their serious nature and the public figures involved.
The Dispute Over the Nanny’s Allegations and Messages
In his defense, Gaiman argues that Pavlovich’s accusations are entirely fabricated and that their interactions were mutually consensual.
The filing includes a series of 43 pages of WhatsApp messages exchanged between Gaiman and Pavlovich throughout 2022.
In these texts, Pavlovich openly refers to their encounters, thanking him for a naked bath they shared in February 2022 and calling the experience “consensual.”
Despite her later accusations in media interviews, the messages indicate a completely different narrative, with Pavlovich herself expressing no discomfort or non-consent at the time.
Gaiman’s Account of the Alleged Bath Incident
In the new court documents, Gaiman provides his detailed version of the bath incident.
He explains that the bath, which took place in a garden with a hot water hose, was entirely voluntary on Pavlovich’s part.
According to Gaiman, the two discussed consent during the bath, with Pavlovich expressing that she preferred older partners and was open to exploring a sexual relationship with him.
They proceeded to engage in affectionate behavior, including cuddling and kissing, though Gaiman stresses that no intercourse occurred.
Pavlovich’s Messages Showing Continued Interest
The legal filing also includes messages from Pavlovich expressing a strong desire to continue the physical relationship with Gaiman.
In one message, she asks if he is interested in taking another naked bath with her, sending flirtatious texts like “I’m consumed by thoughts of you.”
Other messages show Pavlovich openly offering herself to Gaiman, repeatedly describing her attraction and desire to see him again.
These exchanges contradict her later public statements, where she accused him of non-consensual acts.
Gaiman’s Rejection of the Assault Allegations
In the court filing, Gaiman’s legal team asserts that Pavlovich’s claims are false, labeling them as “outrageous” and accusing her of fabricating graphic sexual scenarios.
The filing also points out that Pavlovich’s allegations were thoroughly investigated by law enforcement in New Zealand, where both she and Gaiman were living at the time.
Authorities concluded that there was no credible evidence to support her claims and decided not to file any charges against Gaiman.
A Timeline of Contradictory Statements from Pavlovich
As the case continues to unfold, the timeline of messages between Pavlovich and Gaiman reveals a pattern of contradictory statements.
After Gaiman expressed concern over rumors that she had made a sexual assault claim, Pavlovich strongly denied the allegations.
She reassured Gaiman that their interactions were “consensual and wonderful” and insisted multiple times that the relationship was entirely mutual.
Yet, her later interviews and podcast appearances painted a drastically different picture of the events.
Gaiman’s Legal Team Defends His Reputation
Neil Gaiman’s legal team has worked to clear his name, arguing that Pavlovich’s accusations lack any merit and are inconsistent with the evidence.
They emphasize that Gaiman’s conduct was always respectful and that any physical activity that took place was entirely consensual.
The legal team reiterates that New Zealand law enforcement thoroughly investigated the allegations and found no evidence of wrongdoing, bolstering Gaiman’s defense.
Public and Legal Battle Continues
As the legal proceedings continue, the battle between Gaiman and Pavlovich remains at the forefront of public attention.
The case has sparked intense media coverage and public debate over the nature of the allegations, the credibility of the accuser, and the potential impact on Gaiman’s reputation.
Both sides are digging in their heels, with each presenting evidence that they believe will sway the court’s opinion.
The Broader Implications of the Case
This case has broader implications for the way sexual assault allegations are handled in the public eye and in the courts.
It raises questions about the power of social media, the potential for fabricated claims, and how evidence should be weighed in such sensitive matters.
As both parties continue to present their sides, the outcome of the case will likely set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
Gaiman Continues to Deny Any Wrongdoing
Neil Gaiman has firmly maintained his innocence throughout the legal process.
He has publicly stated that, while he acknowledges his imperfections, he has never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity.
The author’s continued defense against Pavlovich’s claims aims to clear his name and restore his reputation as a respected figure in the literary world.