Key Takeaways:

• The stage adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s 'Coraline' has been canceled following serious sexual misconduct allegations against the author.
• Multiple theaters, including Leeds Playhouse and Royal Lyceum Theatre, announced the decision, citing the inappropriateness of proceeding given the circumstances.
• In a statement, Gaiman has denied engaging in non-consensual activities, claiming the relationships were consensual.
• The cancellation follows a series of allegations from women, with some incidents detailed involving practices of BDSM.
• This decision adds to the growing list of projects associated with Gaiman that have been postponed or canceled.

The theater industry is facing a significant upheaval as Neil Gaiman's musical adaptation of Coraline has been scrapped due to mounting allegations of sexual misconduct against the acclaimed author. Initially set to premiere at Leeds Playhouse in April 2025 and later tour around the UK, the show's co-producing venues—including Royal Lyceum Theatre and Birmingham Rep—announced the cancellation in a joint statement, asserting that it would be impossible to continue with the production in light of the allegations.

Gaiman, 64, has faced accusations from a total of nine women. The allegations first emerged publicly last year, but additional claims have surfaced in January 2025, detailing experiences of sexual assault and coercive behavior. According to a recent article in USA Today, the allegations range from forcible acts to claims of non-consensual BDSM practices.

In response to the allegations, Gaiman released an open letter on his website, expressing horror and dismay at the circulating reports. He firmly stated that he has “never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone” while acknowledging that he is "far from a perfect person."

This fall from grace has prompted significant repercussions for Gaiman's career, with publishers, including Dark Horse Comics and HarperCollins, announcing the cancellation of future projects. Notably, Dark Horse indicated that it would cease publication of works related to Gaiman, which had previously included an adaptation of his novel The Sandman.

This incident highlights the critical and often difficult conversations around accountability in the arts, as theatre companies and publishers reassess their associations in the wake of serious allegations. For updates and more detailed information, visit BBC, The Guardian, and USA Today.