Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner has officially been cast as Lara Croft in the upcoming Tomb Raider series by Amazon MGM Studios. The project, spearheaded by Phoebe Waller-Bridge of Fleabag fame, is scheduled to begin production on January 19, 2026. This announcement comes after months of speculation since Turner’s involvement was first reported in late 2024.
The 29-year-old actress shared her excitement on Instagram, expressing that she could finally reveal her new role. Turner called Lara Croft “an iconic character who means so much to so many,” and promised to give her best performance. She acknowledged the legacy of Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander, who previously portrayed the action-adventure archaeologist on the big screen, saying that she had “big shoes to fill” but felt confident with Waller-Bridge leading the series.
Angelina Jolie, who played Croft in the 2001 Simon West-directed film, once revealed the intense preparation required for the role. Jolie recalled two and a half months of demanding training to build muscle mass, which included strength routines, bunji jumping, dog sledding, and strict nutrition plans consisting of protein shakes and five meals daily. Turner may draw on these lessons as she prepares to step into the role.
Fans have been divided about Turner’s casting. Some praised the decision, calling it a new era for the Tomb Raider franchise, while others insisted that Angelina Jolie remains the definitive Lara Croft. Despite mixed reactions, Turner has been training hard, with recent photos showing her developing a stronger physique for the role.
Having already showcased her action skills in X-Men as Jean Grey and in the spy film Barely Lethal, Sophie Turner is poised to deliver a fresh take on the legendary video game heroine. With production set to begin in early 2026, the series is expected to reignite global interest in one of the most iconic characters in gaming and cinematic history.