Robert Neilson Stephens (July 22, 1867 - January 20, 1906) was an American novelist and playwright.

He was drama editor of that paper until 1893, and by that time had also published short stories in magazines.

[1] He subsequently became a theatrical agent in New York City and began writing plays.

His first play, On the Bowery, featured famous bridge jumper Steve Brodie.

On the Bowery and his other early plays were intended for popular consumption, not critical acclaim, in the hope he could produce more serious pieces in the future.