Sophie Turner to Lead Amazon’s ‘Tomb Raider’ in 2026. Image: Varierty
Amazon’s highly anticipated Tomb Raider live-action series is officially moving forward with production beginning early 2026. The project, based on the iconic video game franchise, will see Sophie Turner stepping into the role of legendary adventurer Lara Croft.
The series will start filming on January 19, 2026, with Amazon MGM Studios confirming Turner’s casting after months of speculation. Turner’s involvement was first reported late last year, and her role has now been officially announced.
A Star-Powered Creative Team
The series brings together some of television’s most dynamic names. Phoebe Waller-Bridge, known for Fleabag and Killing Eve, will serve as creator, writer, and executive producer. Chad Hodge has joined as co-showrunner and executive producer, working alongside Waller-Bridge. Jonathan van Tulleken, who previously directed episodes of Shogun and Top Boy, will direct and executive produce.
In a statement, Waller-Bridge expressed excitement about the project:
“I’m so thrilled to announce Sophie Turner as our Lara Croft. It’s rare to make a series of this scale with a character you’ve loved since childhood. Everyone involved is wildly passionate about Lara, and we can’t wait to share her new adventures.”
Sophie Turner Takes On Lara Croft
Turner, best known for her acclaimed role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, becomes the latest actress to embody the iconic archaeologist. Angelina Jolie first brought Croft to life in two early-2000s films, while Alicia Vikander took on the role in 2018.
For Turner, playing Lara Croft is both an honor and a challenge.
“I am beyond thrilled to play Lara Croft,” Turner said. “She’s an iconic character who means so much to so many people. It’s a huge responsibility, especially after Angelina and Alicia’s powerhouse performances. But with Phoebe leading this team, Lara is in safe hands. I’m giving this everything I’ve got.”
Building on a Legendary Legacy
The Tomb Raider series is part of a larger creative pact between Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics, and Story Kitchen. This collaboration aims to expand the Tomb Raider universe into both television and film, giving fans a broader scope of Croft’s adventures.
Vernon Sanders, head of global television at Amazon MGM Studios, praised the casting and creative team.
“Lara Croft is one of the most recognizable video game characters of all time,” Sanders said. “We are thrilled Sophie Turner will bring her to life, embodying her courage, strength, and unshakable resolve. With Phoebe Waller-Bridge guiding the series, this project will honor Lara’s legacy while offering fresh new stories to audiences worldwide.”
A Team of Veteran Producers
The series is backed by an impressive roster of producers. Alongside Waller-Bridge and Hodge, the executive production team includes Jonathan van Tulleken, Jenny Robins of Wells Street Productions, Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson of Story Kitchen, and Michael Scheel. Legendary Television also joins as a producer.
Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the Tomb Raider video games, is directly involved in production, ensuring the show remains faithful to the source material.
Strong Creative Foundations
Hodge, the co-showrunner, brings experience from writing The Darkest Minds, Single All the Way, and creating shows like Wayward Pines and Good Behavior. Director Jonathan van Tulleken has helmed projects such as Upload and Dope Thief, making him a seasoned choice for this ambitious series.
Waller-Bridge’s involvement also adds prestige. Her distinctive voice and storytelling style have been praised for blending wit, drama, and emotional depth — qualities fans are eager to see in the reinvention of Lara Croft.
The Countdown Begins
With filming set for early 2026, anticipation for the series is already high. Fans of the franchise, which began with the 1996 video game, have long awaited a fresh adaptation that expands beyond the films.
Turner’s casting signals Amazon’s confidence in building a global franchise around Tomb Raider. And with a powerhouse creative team at the helm, Lara Croft looks ready to embark on a bold new journey.
