35 Facts About George R.R. Martin

Early Life and Education

George R.R. Martin, the mastermind behind "A Song of Ice and Fire," has a fascinating background that shaped his storytelling prowess.

1. Born on September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Martin's full name is George Raymond Richard Martin.
2. As a child, he sold monster stories to other neighborhood children, complete with dramatic readings.
3. Martin attended Mary Jane Donohoe School and later Marist High School.
4. He earned a B.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University in 1970.
5. In 1971, he completed his M.S. in Journalism from the same university.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming a household name, Martin had a diverse career that laid the groundwork for his future success.

6. Martin's first professional sale was "The Hero," published in Galaxy magazine in 1971.
7. He worked as a VISTA volunteer, chess tournament director, and journalism instructor before diving into full-time writing.
8. In the 1970s, he wrote for television, including episodes for "The Twilight Zone" and "Beauty and the Beast."
9. His first novel, "Dying of the Light," was published in 1977.
10. Martin also edited the "Wild Cards" series, a shared universe of superhero stories.

A Song of Ice and Fire

The series that catapulted Martin to fame, "A Song of Ice and Fire," has a rich history and many intriguing details.

11. The first book, "A Game of Thrones," was published in 1996.
12. Martin drew inspiration from the Wars of the Roses, a series of English civil wars.
13. He initially envisioned the series as a trilogy but expanded it to seven planned books.
14. The series has been translated into over 45 languages.
15. "A Dance with Dragons," the fifth book, debuted at number one on The New York Times Best Seller list in 2011.

Influence and Impact

Martin's work has left an indelible mark on literature, television, and popular culture.

16. "Game of Thrones," the HBO adaptation, premiered in 2011 and ran for eight seasons.
17. The show won 59 Primetime Emmy Awards, the most for any drama series.
18. Martin's intricate world-building has inspired countless fantasy authors.
19. He has been compared to J.R.R. Tolkien for his epic storytelling.
20. Martin's characters are known for their moral complexity and unpredictability.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional achievements, Martin's personal life offers a glimpse into the man behind the stories.

21. Martin married Gale Burnick in 1975, but they divorced in 1979.
22. He married Parris McBride in 2011, after being together for over 30 years.
23. Martin is a self-proclaimed "geek," with a love for comic books, science fiction, and fantasy.
24. He owns a movie theater in Santa Fe, New Mexico, called the Jean Cocteau Cinema.
25. Martin is an advocate for various charitable causes, including the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary.

Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known tidbits that add even more color to Martin's already vibrant persona.

26. Martin has a pet turtle named Morla, named after the giant turtle in "The NeverEnding Story."
27. He is a huge fan of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.
28. Martin has a cameo in the "Game of Thrones" TV series as a guest at Daenerys' wedding.
29. He once lost a bet to fellow author Neil Gaiman and had to buy him a meal.
30. Martin's favorite character to write is Tyrion Lannister.

Legacy and Future Projects

Martin's legacy continues to grow, with numerous projects in the pipeline.

31. He is working on the sixth book in the series, "The Winds of Winter."
32. Martin has signed a five-year deal with HBO to develop new content.
33. He is involved in the production of several "Game of Thrones" spin-offs.
34. Martin has expressed interest in writing more "Wild Cards" stories.
35. He plans to open a museum dedicated to science fiction and fantasy in Santa Fe.

Final Thoughts on George R.R. Martin

George R.R. Martin's impact on literature and pop culture is undeniable. His A Song of Ice and Fire series has captivated millions, spawning the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Martin's intricate world-building, complex characters, and unpredictable plots set him apart from other fantasy authors. Beyond his famous series, he's penned numerous short stories, novels, and screenplays, showcasing his versatility. His dedication to his craft and his fans is evident in every word he writes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, there's always something new to discover about this literary giant. Martin's legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence writers and entertain readers for generations. So, next time you pick up one of his books, remember the man behind the magic and appreciate the depth of his storytelling genius.