‘Game of Thrones’ Star Becomes the New Lara Croft in Amazon’s ‘Tomb Raider’ Series

Sophie Turner, known for her role in Game of Thrones, has been cast as Lara Croft in Amazon’s upcoming live-action Tomb Raider series. The show is being created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who will reimagine the iconic video game character for a new TV audience.

Amazon announced the news on Wednesday and shared that Turner will lead the series.

Waller-Bridge expressed her excitement in a statement, saying, “I’m so excited to announce the formidable Sophie Turner as our Lara alongside this phenomenal creative team. It’s not very often you get to make a show of this scale with a character you grew up loving. Everyone on board is wildly passionate about Lara and are all as outrageous, brave, and hilarious as she is. Get your artifacts out. Croft is coming.”

Turner acknowledged the actresses who previously played Lara Croft on screen. “I am thrilled beyond measure to be playing Lara Croft. She’s such an iconic character, who means so much to so many — and I am giving everything I’ve got,” she said.

“They’re massive shoes to fill, following in the steps of Angelina and Alicia with their powerhouse performances, but with Phoebe at the helm, we (and Lara) are all in very safe hands. I can’t wait for you all to see what we have cooking.”

Jonathan Van Tulleken, known for his work on Shōgun, will direct the series. Chad Hodge joins as co-showrunner and executive producer alongside Waller-Bridge. Production is set to begin on January 19, 2026, in collaboration with game developer Crystal Dynamics, though no release date has been confirmed.

Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, said the show will deliver “exhilarating adventures that honor the legacy of this iconic character.” Lara Croft made her video game debut in 1996 and became one of the first major female adventurers in gaming, breaking trends in a male-dominated industry.

The role has a long cinematic history. Angelina Jolie first played Lara in 2001, followed by Alicia Vikander in 2018. Vikander’s film made $274 million at the global box office, but plans for a sequel were delayed after Amazon acquired MGM.

With Sophie Turner now taking the role and Waller-Bridge leading the creative vision, the Tomb Raider series is set to bring a fresh take on the legendary adventurer.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!