Acclaimed Game of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin has taken on producer duties for an upcoming animated Hercules film, marking another side project unrelated to his long-delayed Winds of Winter novel.

Martin Brings Mythological Expertise to Hercules Reimagining

The Hollywood Reporter confirms Martin will produce this fresh adaptation titled A Dozen Tough Jobs, which presents Hercules' legendary twelve labors through the viewpoint of a 1920s Mississippi farmer.

While Martin contributes his production expertise, screenwriting duties fall to Joe R. Lansdale, known for his unconventional Bubba Ho-Tep novel featuring Elvis Presley battling Egyptian mythology.

"George R.R. Martin fundamentally understands epic storytelling and franchise building," said David Steward II of Lion Forge Entertainment. "A Dozen Tough Jobs offers a culturally-rich reimagining that honors myth while pioneering new narrative territory."

The Ongoing Wait for Winds of Winter

While expanding his creative horizons, Martin continues work on Winds of Winter - the anticipated sixth installment in his A Song of Ice and Fire series, last updated with 2011's A Dance with Dragons.

The 76-year-old author maintains plans to conclude the saga with A Dream of Spring, though HBO's Game of Thrones famously outpaced his writing progress with controversial results.

Martin remains deeply involved in the Game of Thrones expanded universe, consulting on House of the Dragon and various Westeros-set projects while finding time for collaborations like Elden Ring's mythos.

In September 2024, Martin acknowledged television commitments consumed most of his writing time. His April 2025 blog post explicitly denied imminent publication, stating: "No, the book isn't coming soon."