George R.R. Martin Produces Animated Hercules Film, Delays Winds of Winter

Game of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin has ventured into new territory by joining the production team of an upcoming animated Hercules movie titled "A Dozen Tough Jobs." This project, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, will offer a fresh take on the classic Greek myth of Hercules' 12 labors, reimagined through the eyes of a farmer in 1920s Mississippi.

Martin will serve as a producer on the film but will not be involved in writing the script. That task has been entrusted to Joe R. Lansdale, known for his unique storytelling in novels like "Bubba Ho-Tep," where Elvis battles an Egyptian mummy.

David Steward II, head of Lion Forge Entertainment, praised Martin's involvement, stating, "If anyone understands the power of epic stories and expansive franchises, it's George R.R. Martin. 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."

While fans eagerly await the release of "The Winds of Winter," the next installment in Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, there is still no set release date. It has been nearly 14 years since the last book, "A Dance with Dragons," was published in July 2011. Martin has plans for a subsequent book, "A Dream of Spring," to conclude the series, which the Game of Thrones TV show did not wait for, resulting in a mixed reception.

In the meantime, Martin has remained active in various projects, including multiple Game of Thrones TV spin-offs like the acclaimed "House of the Dragon," and historical novels set within the franchise's universe. He has also contributed to the video game industry, notably by writing backstory for "Elden Ring."

Martin's recent blog posts have shed light on his challenges in completing "The Winds of Winter." In September 2024, he admitted that television projects consumed much of the first half of the previous year, hindering his progress on the book. More recently, in an April 7, 2025, post, Martin expressed frustration over constant speculations about the book's imminent release, firmly stating, "It’s not. No."

Game of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin. Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images.