Game of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin has taken on a new role as a producer for an upcoming animated Hercules movie titled "A Dozen Tough Jobs." This project, reported by The Hollywood Reporter, will offer a fresh take on the classic Greek tale of Hercules' 12 labors, reimagining it through the eyes of a farmer in 1920s Mississippi. While Martin will lend his expertise as a producer, the screenplay duties will be handled by Joe R. Lansdale, known for his unique novel "Bubba Ho-Tep," which features Elvis battling an Egyptian Mummy.
David Steward II, head of Lion Forge Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm about 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."
Despite fans' eagerness for the next installment in Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, "The Winds of Winter," there is still no release date for the book. It has been nearly 14 years since the last book, "A Dance with Dragons," was released in July 2011. Martin has plans for "The Winds of Winter" to be followed by "A Dream of Spring," concluding the series, which the Game of Thrones TV adaptation did not wait for, resulting in a mixed reception.
While awaiting the next book, Martin has remained active in other projects. He has contributed to various Game of Thrones TV spin-offs, including the successful "House of the Dragon," and has written fictional historical novels set in the franchise's universe. Additionally, Martin has ventured into video games, crafting backstory for the acclaimed "Elden Ring."
In September 2024, Martin shared on his blog that television projects consumed much of his time in the first half of the previous year, hindering his progress on "The Winds of Winter." In a more recent post dated April 7, 2025, he expressed frustration over constant speculations about the book's release, firmly stating that "The Winds of Winter" is not imminent.
Game of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin. Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images.
