Overview
- Penguin Random House said it consulted the illustrator and was assured no generative AI was used, adding that the publisher believes the artist.
- Raya Golden, posting on Martin’s blog for Fevre River, said the artwork did not involve AI and reaffirmed that Martin’s office will not work with generative AI artists.
- Illustrator Jeffrey R. McDonald stated he does not use AI, noted that images undergo team approvals, and said a debated cross detail was actually a wall sconce.
- Fans on X and Reddit highlighted alleged AI tells including odd anatomy, repetitive textures, and inconsistencies with Westeros heraldry, colors, and character details.
- The $50, 20th‑anniversary edition, released November 4 with 24 new color illustrations, is facing the dispute against the backdrop of Martin’s ongoing lawsuit over AI training of copyrighted works.