Who is Scarlett Pavlovich? All we know about Amanda Palmer’s former babysitter amid Neil Gaiman allegations

Scarlett Pavlovich, a former babysitter for Neil Gaiman and Amanda Palmer, is among the many women who have levied s*xual a**ault allegations against author Neil Gaiman.

Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Scarlett Pavlovich left high school at 15, embarking on a journey through Europe, Morocco, and the Middle East. Along the way, she paused in Scotland, where actor Tilda Swinton awarded her a scholarship to attend the Steiner School Drumduan. She also spent time in London, working within the cabaret scene before financial constraints and visa issues brought her back to Auckland in 2019.

According to New York Magazine, in Auckland, Pavlovich enrolled in acting school and took a job at a perfumery to support herself. Known for her pale, waifish appearance and bold, flamboyant outfits, she stood out for her striking presence and unique sense of style. Despite her vibrant exterior, she carried deep personal wounds. She was estranged from her family, and her diary entries hinted at profound loneliness and a history of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse.

Scarlett Pavlovich was a 22-year-old drama student when she crossed paths with performer Amanda Palmer on the streets of Auckland, sparking an unusual and complex relationship. Pavlovich admired Palmer, even harboring a crush on the artist. She eagerly helped Palmer, despite her own financial struggles, and appreciated the sense of belonging Palmer offered.

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What has Scarlett Pavlovich alleged Gaiman of?

On 4 February 2022, Amanda Palmer requested Scarlett Pavlovich to babysit her and Neil Gaiman’s 5-year-old son at Gaiman’s home on Waiheke Island, New Zealand, during a period when the couple was separated.

Upon her arrival, Scarlett Pavlovich found herself alone with Neil Gaiman after Palmer had arranged for the child to attend a playdate elsewhere. Initially, the evening unfolded quietly, with Pavlovich reading on the couch as Gaiman worked in his office. He later offered her a tour of the property, picking a fig—her favorite fruit—for her. They shared an awkward dinner of pizza, during which Gaiman poured Pavlovich several glasses of rosé while himself choosing to have water.

After the meal, Gaiman suggested she take a bath in a claw-foot tub in the garden, describing it as 'enchanting.' Though hesitant, Scarlett Pavlovich reluctantly agreed, believing Neil Gaiman’s assurance that it would keep her from being bored while he made a work call.

However, a few minutes into the bath, Gaiman returned unexpectedly. To her shock, he was naked. Despite her discomfort, he lit candles and climbed into the tub with her. He dismissed her attempts to express unease, encouraging her to 'relax' and 'not ruin the moment.' What followed was a deeply traumatic encounter.

Pavlovich alleged that Gaiman proceeded to touch her inappropriately, despite her repeated refusals. She disclosed that he ignored her protests and her disclosure of past sexual trauma, continuing to assault her physically and verbally.

Neil Gaiman has denied all allegations against him. The author, who has several TV adaptations of his works in development, stepped away from production on the third season of Prime Video's Good Omens.