Neil LaBute

Neil LaBute is an American writer that has found success and recognition on both stage and screen. A graduate of Brigham Young University, LaBute studied theatre and challenged many of the conservative norms of his community with the content of his plays. Following his undergraduate work, he attended the University of Kansas and New York University. He also worked in London with the Royal Academy and Royal Court Theatre.

Many of LaBute's plays deal with potentially harmful and toxic relationships, including In the Company of Men (1993) and The Shape of Things (2001), both of which were adapted into films. Other popular plays include Fat Pig (2004) Some Girl(s) (2005), and reasons to be pretty (2008). Several critics have labeled LaBute's work as "misanthropic," as many of the characters are pessimistic and distrustful about any hope or good in the world. LaBute himself has said, "My plays are polarizing. People love them or loathe them. I don't care which."