Sophie Turner to Star as Lara Croft in Amazon’s ‘Tomb Raider’ Series

Amazon MGM Studios has confirmed that production for the live-action ‘Tomb Raider’ series will begin on January 19, 2026, marking a new chapter for one of gaming’s most enduring heroines. Sophie Turner, acclaimed for her roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘X-Men,’ will bring Lara Croft to life, taking the mantle from previous film stars Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander. The series will be guided by showrunner, creator, and executive producer Phoebe Waller-Bridge, whose work on ‘Fleabag’ and ‘Killing Eve’ has earned widespread acclaim for its wit, complexity, and inclusivity .

The announcement marks a significant moment not only for fans of the franchise but also for the broader entertainment landscape. Sophie Turner’s casting follows months of speculation and rumors regarding the show's future after reports of cancellation, which have now been firmly put to rest by Amazon MGM Studios. Turner herself expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunity: “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. 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,” Turner said in an official statement .

Waller-Bridge’s approach to the source material is described as “dangerous and exciting,” with the creative team aiming to honor Lara Croft’s legacy while introducing new layers of complexity and representation. “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 ...” Waller-Bridge noted in a recent press release .

Since her debut in 1996, Lara Croft has evolved from a video game character into a global symbol of independence, resilience, and adventure. Her influence extends far beyond gaming, sparking conversations about female representation, gender roles, and inclusivity in media. The casting of Sophie Turner, an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity, underscores the series’ commitment to reflecting the diversity of its audience .

The creative team behind the series, which includes Chad Hodge and director Jonathan Van Tulleken, brings a wealth of experience in crafting nuanced, intersectional stories. Hodge’s previous work on ‘Single All the Way,’ a popular LGBTQ+ holiday film, and Waller-Bridge’s history of centering marginalized voices, suggest that the new ‘Tomb Raider’ will be mindful of representation across gender, sexuality, and identity .

The announcement has been met with excitement from LGBTQ+ fans and advocacy groups, many of whom have long championed Lara Croft as a queer-coded icon. While the character has not been officially depicted as LGBTQ+ in previous media, her status as a strong, independent woman who defies traditional norms has resonated with queer audiences for decades. The creative team’s track record and statements suggest an openness to exploring themes of identity, community, and self-discovery within the series.

Turner’s own advocacy work and public support for LGBTQ+ causes have made her a beloved figure within the community. Her casting is seen as a step forward for visibility in mainstream media, particularly in genre storytelling, which has historically underrepresented LGBTQ+ individuals. “Representation matters, and seeing someone like Sophie Turner take on an iconic role like Lara Croft sends a powerful message,” said a spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ media watchdog organization GLAAD in response to the announcement .

As anticipation builds, industry insiders and fans alike are eager to see how Waller-Bridge and her team will reinterpret Lara Croft for a new generation. The series is a collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics (the original game developer), and Story Kitchen. The production, set to begin in London, will benefit from significant investment in location, casting, and technical innovation — all aimed at delivering a show that honors the franchise’s legacy while pushing boundaries for representation and storytelling .

With the series moving ahead for a 2026 production start, fans can expect updates on additional casting, story direction, and behind-the-scenes initiatives supporting diversity and inclusion in the coming months. The reimagining of Lara Croft, under Waller-Bridge’s leadership and with Turner’s star power, is poised to be a milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility in global entertainment.