If you ever needed proof that Hollywood loves a sequel to sequels, Amazon has just delivered. With a bold casting move and a talented creative team at the helm, the studio is turning up the heat on one of gaming’s most beloved legends: Lara Croft. Sophie Turner—yes, Sansa Stark herself—is officially confirmed as the new face of Tomb Raider in Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming live-action series. Cameras are set to roll in January 2026, and adventure awaits.
From Thrones to Tombs: Sophie Turner’s Bold Leap
Ever since wrapping up her stint as Sansa Stark on Game of Thrones, Sophie Turner has been searching for her “next big thing.” With this new role, she’s trading the political intrigues of Westeros for global expeditions and cryptic puzzles.
“I’m thrilled beyond measure to be playing Lara Croft,” Turner said in a heartfelt statement. “She’s such an iconic character, who means so much to so many—and I am giving everything I’ve got.”
Of course, stepping into Lara’s boots means following in some formidable footsteps. Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander both brought depth and physicality to the character in their film adaptations. Turner didn’t shy away from the legacy either: “They’re massive shoes to fill… but with Phoebe at the helm, we (and Lara) are all in very safe hands.”
Phoebe Waller-Bridge as the Mastermind
If you think Tomb Raider is going to be just another action-adventure adaptation, think again. The series is strongly guided by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve), who will serve as creator, head writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner. Joining her are Chad Hodge (co-showrunner) and Jonathan van Tulleken as director and executive producer.
Waller-Bridge shared her excitement too: “I’m so excited to announce the formidable Sophie Turner as our Lara alongside this phenomenal creative team… Everyone on board is wildly passionate about Lara and are all as outrageous, brave, and hilarious as she is.”
Add to that a production team that includes Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics (the video game developers), Story Kitchen, and Wells Street Productions—and you’ve got a recipe equal parts action, reverence, and creative buzz.
Filming Set to Begin in January 2026
After months of speculation—including rumors the project had died—Amazon finally confirmed that production will start on January 19, 2026. It’s an exciting turnaround for a property that seemed in limbo earlier this year, and signs that Amazon is steering full steam ahead.
Fanbase Response: Razor-Sharp or Rough Around the Edges?
Not all fans are ready to cheer. On Reddit and across social media, opinions range from doubtful to downright harsh. One user lamented that Turner is “way too thin… in no possible way [is she] Lara Croft,” while another bluntly called her a “charisma vacuum” unsuited to carry the franchise.
Still, others are in wait-and-see mode, anxious to pass judgment until a trailer—or better yet, the series itself—digs its way into the spotlight.
Why This Series Matters
This iteration of Tomb Raider isn’t just another adaptation—it’s a potential reinvention. With Waller-Bridge’s razor-sharp wit, Turner’s emotional range, and the storied franchise’s rich lore, the series could strike a powerful balance between nostalgia and freshness.
Plus, it marks yet another major franchise stepping into long-form storytelling. Fans of Fleabag and Game of Thrones can rejoice—or recoil, depending on how rugged a turn-based adventurer they think Lara should be.
Closing Thoughts
Sophie Turner as Lara Croft—and Phoebe Waller-Bridge running the show—makes for a pairing that has both history and hype behind it. Whether this becomes the next big streaming phenomenon or a cautionary tale of mismatched casting, one thing’s for sure: Croft is coming, and she’s bringing renewed attention to a world of ancient mysteries, iconic stunts, and undeniable charisma.
Stay tuned—because when cameras roll in January 2026, the real excavation begins.
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