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

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, announced by The Hollywood Reporter, will reimagine the classic Greek myth of Hercules' 12 labors from the unique perspective of a farmer in 1920s Mississippi.

While Martin will contribute his expertise as a producer, the screenplay duties will be handled by Joe R. Lansdale, known for his quirky novel "Bubba Ho-Tep," which features Elvis Presley battling 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."

Despite this new venture, fans of Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series are still eagerly awaiting "The Winds of Winter," the next installment in the saga. It has been nearly 14 years since the release of "A Dance with Dragons" in July 2011, and "The Winds of Winter" remains without a confirmed release date. Martin has plans to follow it with "A Dream of Spring" to conclude the series, a closure that the Game of Thrones TV adaptation did not wait for, resulting in mixed reactions.

In the meantime, Martin has remained active in various projects, including multiple Game of Thrones TV spin-offs such as the successful "House of the Dragon," and he has also delved into the world of video games, contributing backstory for "Elden Ring."

In a recent blog post dated April 7, 2025, Martin expressed frustration over constant speculation about "The Winds of Winter," firmly stating, "I’m so tired of having to issue denials every time some offhand comment of mine, most having nothing to do with WINDS, somehow convinces half the internet that the book is imminent. It’s not. No."