It was. They were told how the books would end, but they actually passed ahead of Martin in the books. We're still waiting for book six, I believe. But the directors were given the helm of one of the Rey Star Wars films and wanted to work on that so they rushed through the last season.
Depends on the time of the year. During the summer, I seem to need it cut every third or fourth week. During the winter, I try to let it grow out more and only have it cut when it no longer looks professional.