David Benioff, born David Friedman on September 25, 1970, is a celebrated American writer and producer. Together with his collaborator D. B. Weiss, he is renowned for co-creating Game of Thrones (2011–2019), the groundbreaking HBO adaptation of George R. R. Martin's series A Song of Ice and Fire.

Benioff's illustrious career began with the novel The 25th Hour, published in 2000, which was adapted into a film by Spike Lee. He has authored several other significant screenplays such as Troy (2004), City of Thieves (2008), and co-wrote X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009).

His earlier work experience includes roles as a nightclub bouncer in San Francisco, a radio DJ in Wyoming, and an English teacher and wrestling coach in Brooklyn.