The Game of Thrones star steps into archaeology boots for Amazon’s most ambitious video game adaptation yet
Sophie Turner is trading dragon fire for ancient artifacts as Amazon Prime Video officially confirms what fans have been whispering about since November: the beloved Game of Thrones actress will become the latest—and potentially greatest—Lara Croft.
With cameras set to roll on January 19, 2026, Amazon’s Tomb Raider series promises to be more than just another video game adaptation. It’s shaping up to be a complete reinvention of one of gaming’s most iconic characters, helmed by a creative team that understands the weight of Croft’s legendary status.
Why This Time Feels Different
While Angelina Jolie brought athletic grace and Alicia Vikander delivered grounded intensity to their respective film portrayals, Turner’s Croft promises something entirely new. Under the guidance of Phoebe Waller-Bridge—the genius behind Fleabag and Killing Eve—this series appears positioned to explore dimensions of Lara that previous adaptations only scratched the surface of.
“It’s not very often you get to make a show of this scale with a character you grew up loving,” Waller-Bridge reveals, her excitement palpable. “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…”
That playful confidence suggests we’re in for a Lara Croft who’s as quick with a quip as she is with dual pistols—exactly what Waller-Bridge does best.
Turner’s Take on an Impossible Legacy
For Turner, stepping into Croft’s combat boots means following two powerhouse actresses who defined the character for different generations. But rather than feeling intimidated, the actress sounds energized by the challenge.
“She’s such an iconic character, who means so much to so many—and I am giving everything I’ve got,” Turner explains. “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.”
Turner’s approach hints at something deeper than simple action-adventure thrills. Her background in complex, morally ambiguous characters (hello, Sansa Stark) suggests a Lara who might grapple with the ethical implications of tomb raiding in ways previous versions haven’t explored.
The Dream Team Behind the Adventure
Waller-Bridge isn’t working alone on this archaeological expedition. Chad Hodge joins as executive producer and co-showrunner, bringing experience from Wayward Pines and Good Behavior—shows that know how to balance mystery with character development. Meanwhile, Jonathan van Tulleken, fresh off acclaimed work on Shogun and Top Boy, will direct and executive produce, ensuring the series maintains cinematic quality throughout.
This isn’t just a prestige cast and crew—it’s a carefully assembled team that understands how to elevate source material while respecting its origins.
More Than Just Another Video Game Adaptation
Amazon’s commitment runs deeper than throwing money at a popular IP. The series emerges from a strategic partnership between Crystal Dynamics (the game developers) and Amazon MGM Studios via Story Kitchen’s first-look deal, ensuring authentic representation of the gaming legacy while expanding into new narrative territories.
“Lara Croft is one of the most recognizable and iconic video game characters of all time,” notes Vernon Sanders, head of global television at Prime Video. “This series will honor the beloved ‘Tomb Raider’ legacy while delivering fresh adventures to fans worldwide.”
That balance—honoring the past while forging new ground—could be what finally breaks the video game adaptation curse that has plagued Hollywood for decades.
What This Means for Adventure Television
With Indiana Jones aging out and archaeological adventure feeling ripe for reinvention, Turner’s Tomb Raider could claim the throne as television’s premier treasure-hunting series. The long-form format allows for deeper character exploration, more complex mythology, and the kind of serialized storytelling that made Game of Thrones a cultural phenomenon.
Plus, with Waller-Bridge’s track record of creating complex, flawed, utterly compelling female protagonists, we might finally get the definitive version of Lara Croft—one that honors her gaming legacy while expanding her into something even richer.
The Wait Begins
As production gears up for early 2026, anticipation continues building for what could be Amazon’s biggest swing at appointment television since The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. With Turner’s star power, Waller-Bridge’s creative vision, and Amazon’s deep pockets, this Tomb Raider series has all the ingredients for something truly special.
The real question isn’t whether Turner can fill Croft’s boots—it’s whether audiences are ready for a Lara Croft who might just redefine what archaeological adventure can be in the streaming era.
