Sophie Turner may soon trade the throne of Winterfell for ancient ruins, as reports suggest the Game of Thrones star is in advanced negotiations to portray iconic archaeologist and adventurer Lara Croft in Amazon’s upcoming Tomb Raider series. This adaptation, masterminded by Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny‘s Phoebe Waller-Bridge, marks a new chapter in the Tomb Raider franchise.
According to Deadline, Turner, best known as Sansa Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones and Jean Grey in the X-Men films, is the frontrunner for the role following a round of screen tests in October. Other contenders reportedly included Lucy Boynton (Bohemian Rhapsody), Mackenzie Davis (Terminator: Dark Fate), and Emma Mackey (Sex Education). If Turner secures the role, she will join a growing cast under the creative guidance of Waller-Bridge, who serves as both writer and executive producer.
The Tomb Raider series represents Amazon’s ambitious push to revitalise the legendary franchise, aiming to build a multi-format universe that honors Lara Croft’s legacy. “Tomb Raider has been a huge part of my life and I feel incredibly privileged to be bringing it to television with such passionate collaborators,” Waller-Bridge said. She promises an “adventure, bats and all,” a nod to the thrilling, obstacle-laden gameplay that defined the original Tomb Raider games.
If cast, Turner would follow in the footsteps of Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander, who portrayed Lara Croft in previous live-action adaptations. This would also mark Turner’s fourth television role since Game of Thrones, following appearances in Survive, The Staircase, and Joan.
Amazon’s Tomb Raider series aims to capture the success of recent video game adaptations such as The Last of Us and Fallout, while capitalising on the franchise’s growing momentum. Netflix recently found success with its anime series Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, starring Hayley Atwell, which was renewed for a second season after resonating with fans.
Details about the plot remain scarce, though fans can expect Croft’s signature blend of acrobatics, treasure hunting, and perilous encounters with natural and supernatural forces. Turner’s potential casting has sparked excitement and speculation about how the series will reinterpret the beloved character while retaining the adventurous essence of Tomb Raider.
Production timelines remain unclear, and with no official start date, a 2025 release seems unlikely. However, Amazon’s plans to interconnect the television series with a planned film and video game hint at a long-term investment in the Tomb Raider universe. If Sophie Turner officially takes on the role, she’ll not only cement her status as an action-adventure star but also bring a new dimension to one of gaming’s most iconic heroines. Fans can anticipate a bold new era for Lara Croft, with Turner poised to make her mark as the legendary tomb raider.