A new era dawns for the Tomb Raider franchise with Sophie Turner stepping into the iconic role of Lara Croft for Amazon’s upcoming live-action series, promising a fresh perspective on the beloved adventurer. This casting choice, confirmed by Amazon MGM Studios on September 4, 2025, marks a significant push to expand the franchise’s presence across multiple media, alongside a new video game in collaboration with Crystal Dynamics. The series, spearheaded by Emmy-winning writer and actress Phoebe Waller-Bridge, aims to honor the Tomb Raider legacy while delivering new adventures to fans worldwide, as stated by Vernon Sanders, Head of Global Television at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios.
Turner Takes the Tomb
Sophie Turner, celebrated for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, is set to embody Lara Croft in Amazon’s highly anticipated Tomb Raider series for Prime Video. The confirmation follows months of speculation and anticipation, with production scheduled to begin on January 19, 2026. This live-action adaptation represents a significant moment for the franchise, bringing Lara Croft to the small screen in a format that promises to delve deeper into her character and mythology. According to reports from Eurogamer.net, IGN, Screen Rant, Collider, ScreenCrush, Mint, Times Now, HuffPost UK, The Hollywood Reporter via The Straits Times, GamesRadar, and CNET via The Independent, the announcement has generated considerable buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.
Creative Powerhouse
The series is being led by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, an Emmy-winning writer and actress known for her work on Fleabag and Killing Eve. Waller-Bridge will serve as creator, writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner, ensuring a strong creative vision for the series. She is joined by Chad Hodge as co-showrunner and executive producer, and Jonathan Van Tulleken as director and executive producer. This powerhouse team aims to deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with both long-time fans and new viewers.
A Long Journey
The road to this confirmation has been a lengthy one. The series was initially announced approximately three years ago and officially greenlit in May 2024. Rumors linking Sophie Turner to the role began circulating in November 2024, culminating in the official announcement this week. While an official release date remains unconfirmed, the series is projected to premiere on Prime Video in late 2026 or early 2027, offering fans a tangible timeline for the highly anticipated debut.
Honoring the Legacy
The decision to adapt Tomb Raider into a live-action series reflects a commitment to honoring the character’s rich history while introducing fresh adventures. Vernon Sanders of Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios emphasized the desire to respect the beloved legacy while delivering new and exciting stories to a global audience. This approach underscores the importance of balancing nostalgia with innovation, ensuring that the series appeals to both dedicated fans and newcomers alike.
Enthusiasm from the Team
Both Sophie Turner and Phoebe Waller-Bridge have expressed their excitement for the project. Waller-Bridge shared her enthusiasm for creating a show of this magnitude with a character she deeply admires, emphasizing the entire creative team’s passion for Lara Croft. Turner, acknowledging the significant legacy of previous portrayals by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander, stated she is “thrilled beyond measure” to take on the iconic role and is committed to giving it her all, expressing confidence with Waller-Bridge at the helm. Their combined enthusiasm sets a positive tone for the project, suggesting a collaborative and passionate approach to bringing Lara Croft to life.
Expanding the Franchise
The confirmation of Sophie Turner’s casting signals a significant push for the Tomb Raider franchise. This live-action series aims to offer a fresh perspective on the character’s mythology while staying true to its origins. The collaboration between Amazon and Crystal Dynamics extends beyond the series, with the two companies also working together on the next Tomb Raider video game. This comprehensive strategy demonstrates a commitment to expanding the franchise’s presence across multiple media, ensuring that Lara Croft remains a relevant and engaging figure for years to come.
The arrival of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft marks a pivotal moment for the Tomb Raider franchise. With a talented creative team led by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and the backing of Amazon MGM Studios, this live-action series promises to honor the character’s legacy while delivering fresh and exciting adventures. The combined efforts across both television and video games signal a comprehensive strategy to solidify Tomb Raider’s place in popular culture, ensuring that Lara Croft continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
