George R.R. Martin Joins Hercules Animated Film as Producer

Renowned fantasy author George R.R. Martin, best known for his *Game of Thrones* saga, has taken on a new creative role as producer for an upcoming animated film reimagining the myth of Hercules. According to *The Hollywood Reporter*, the project titled *A Dozen Tough Jobs* will creatively reinterpret the ancient Greek tale of Hercules’ twelve labors through a unique lens—setting the story in 1920s Mississippi from the perspective of a local farmer.

While Martin is stepping into a producing capacity, he won’t be involved in scripting duties. That task belongs to acclaimed writer Joe R. Lansdale, famed for his eccentric novel *Bubba Ho-Tep*, which imagines Elvis Presley battling an Egyptian mummy.

"If anyone understands the power of epic stories and expansive franchises, it's George R.R. Martin," said David Steward II, CEO of production company Lion Forge Entertainment. "With *A Dozen Tough Jobs*, we're reimagining a timeless legend through fresh, culturally rich lenses. This isn't just a retelling — it's a groundbreaking take, unlike anything audiences have seen before, grounded in history but pushing myth into uncharted territory."

Meanwhile, fans of Martin’s *A Song of Ice and Fire* series continue to await the release of *The Winds of Winter*, the long-promised sixth installment. With no official release date set and nearly 14 years having passed since the previous book, *A Dance with Dragons*, in July 2011, anticipation remains high. Martin has confirmed that after *The Winds of Winter*, he intends to complete the saga with *A Dream of Spring*—a finale the hit TV adaptation *Game of Thrones* never reached, opting instead for an original conclusion with divisive results.

Despite the delay, Martin remains prolific in other areas. He continues to contribute—directly or indirectly—to various *Game of Thrones* spin-offs, including the critically acclaimed *House of the Dragon*. Additionally, he has authored fictional historical novels expanding the lore of Westeros and contributed background storytelling for *Elden Ring*, one of the most celebrated video games in recent memory.

In a recent blog post dated April 7, 2025, Martin reiterated that *The Winds of Winter* is not yet close to completion. “It’s not. No,” he stated firmly, expressing frustration over recurring rumors sparked by offhand comments unrelated to the book. Fans, as always, remain patient—but hopeful—for when winter finally comes.