TV news: Amazon announces production of new ‘Tomb Raider’ series starring Sophie Turner
Amazon MGM Studios confirmed on Wednesday that production of a long-developing Tomb Raider series will commence in January.
Starring Game of Thrones’ Sophie Turner as the iconic Lara Croft, the series will aim to build on a legacy built across video games and feature films.
Film News Blitz co-founder Dan Lawrence takes a look at the creative folk behind this latest reboot.
Who is the new Lara Croft?
Turner, who became an Emmy nominee for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, follows in the footsteps of Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander to portray gamers' favourite female archaeologist, Lara Croft, in live action.
“I am thrilled beyond measure to be playing Lara Croft,” Turner said.
“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 (Waller-Bridge) 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.”
From ‘Fleabag’ to ‘Tomb Raider’
The new Tomb Raider series is the long-gestating product of Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s overall deal with Amazon MGM Studios and was officially greenlit in May 2024.
A series of delays ensued, but the Fleabag and Killing Eve mastermind serves as writer, executive producer and co-showrunner on Tomb Raider.
“I’m so excited to announce the formidable Sophie Turner as our Lara alongside this phenomenal creative team,” Waller-Bridge said.
“It’s not very often you get to make a show of this scale with a character you grew up loving.
“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...”
Who else is in the new ‘Tomb Raider’ creative team?
Waller-Bridge isn’t the only creative voice behind the new Tomb Raider series.
Joining her is Jonathan Van Tulleken as director and executive producer, and co-showrunner Chad Hodge.
The series is produced by Story Kitchen, Crystal Dynamics and Amazon MGM Studios, and the executive producing team comprises Crystal Dynamics, Waller-Bridge and Jenny Robins through Wells Street Productions; Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg and Timothy I. Stevenson through Story Kitchen; Michael Scheel; and Legendary Television.
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It’s needless to say that Vernon Sanders, Head of Global Television at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, is excited to see production of the new Tomb Raider series commence on January 19, 2026.
“Lara Croft is one of the most recognisable and iconic video game characters of all time,” Sanders said.
“We are thrilled to have the wonderfully talented Sophie Turner bring this character to life who is defined by her courage, strength, and unshakable resolve.
“Led by the brilliant Phoebe Waller-Bridge, this series will honour the beloved Tomb Raider legacy while delivering fresh adventures to fans worldwide.”
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