George R. R. Martin has asked readers for patience as he deals with a difficult period in his personal life. The author of the A Song of Ice and Fire novels, adapted for television as Game of Thrones, recently returned to his personal blog with an update that focused on his wellbeing rather than the status of The Winds of Winter or A Dream of Spring.
Martin opened his first new post in several months by acknowledging his long absence. His last personal blog entry was published on February 19, while later posts were written by members of his staff. He said that, despite having a strong team of assistants, he had continued to fall further behind.
“My friends are all dying. I am battling depression and the worst is yet to come”
— Noxu, https://t.co/ugRr1mQtSm, August 4, 2026
A candid account of a stressful year
Martin described the year as overwhelming. He said it had included exciting developments and dreams coming true, but also personal nightmares, the loss of friends, sadness and depression. He also noted that he turned 77 last September and that ageing had been difficult.
“The worst may be yet to come. I turned seventy-seven last September, and I tell you, getting old is no fun. But there have been amazing times as well.”
“I suppose that’s just life. Of course, I knew that. If you’ve read my stories, you know that.”
The post did not promise a detailed publishing update. Martin said there was a great deal to catch up on, with his staff helping him, but warned that future posts would probably be short and rushed.
That message has prompted a more sympathetic response from readers who have spent years asking about the two unfinished novels. Whatever the eventual publication schedule, Martin’s latest comments make clear that he is managing serious personal and emotional pressures.
Still some good news
Martin’s update was not entirely bleak. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms received nine Emmy nominations, and he hopes to attend the awards ceremony in person, although his attendance had not been confirmed.
He wrote that he was proud of the production team and hoped it would win several awards. He also expressed disappointment that the acting nominations did not go further, adding that there was always next year.
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