George Plimpton was an American writer, editor, and actor, best known for his unique approach to participatory journalism. He often immersed himself in various professions and activities, documenting his experiences in a humorous and engaging manner. His notable works include Paper Lion, where he trained with the Detroit Lions football team, and Out of My League, which chronicles his time as a pitcher for a major league baseball team. In addition to his writing, Plimpton co-founded the literary magazine The Paris Review in 1953, which became a significant platform for new writers and poets. He was also known for his appearances in films and television, often portraying himself or a fictionalized version of his adventurous persona.