Ira Marvin Levin (August 27, 1929 – November 12, 2007) was an American novelist, playwright, and songwriter renowned for his suspenseful and gripping works. His notable novels include A Kiss Before Dying (1953), Rosemary's Baby (1967), The Stepford Wives (1972), This Perfect Day (1970), The Boys from Brazil (1976), and Sliver (1991). Additionally, Levin wrote the play Deathtrap (1978), which stands as one of his significant contributions to the world of theatre.

Levin's journey into the world of writing and art began with his education; he graduated from the Horace Mann School and New York University, where he majored in philosophy and English. After college, he initially worked on writing training films and scripts for television. Levin's first produced play, No Time for Sergeants, adapted from Mac Hyman's novel, was a comedy about a hillbilly drafted into the United States Air Force. This play not only launched the career of Andy Griffith but also is considered the precursor to the television series Gomer Pyle, USMC.

Levin's debut novel, A Kiss Before Dying, was met with critical acclaim and earned him the 1954 Edgar Award for Best First Novel. This novel, like many of Levin's works, was adapted into a movie, showcasing his influence in both literature and film. Many of Levin's novels and plays have been adapted into films, exemplifying his enduring legacy.

Throughout his career, Levin received several accolades, including the Prometheus Hall of Fame Award and multiple Edgar Awards, which stand as a testament to his immense talent and contribution to the field of suspense fiction.