KEY POINTS
- Sophie Turner officially joins the role of Lara Croft, previously portrayed by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander.
- The series is produced by Phoebe Waller Bridge, known for “Fleabag,” with an ensemble cast including Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs.
- “Tomb Raider” reflects the continued expansion of video game franchises into mainstream television and streaming platforms.
Amazon MGM Studios unveiled the first official image of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft in the upcoming “Tomb Raider” television series, marking a high profile adaptation of the globally recognized video game franchise.
Production is currently underway, with Prime Video set to release the series at a later date. The announcement of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft represents a strategic move by Prime Video to leverage one of gaming’s most iconic characters for streaming audiences.
Turner’s casting follows a trend in which major franchises adapt interactive media properties into high-budget television content, aiming to capitalize on established fan bases while attracting new viewers.
The first promotional image shows Turner in Lara Croft’s signature shorts and top, a look that evokes both nostalgia and continuity with past adaptations.
Since its debut in 1996, the “Tomb Raider” video game series has followed the adventures of archaeologist Lara Croft, drawing comparisons to adventure films such as “Indiana Jones.”
The franchise has released multiple titles, including a 2013 reboot widely praised for modernized gameplay and narrative depth.
Previous cinematic adaptations include Angelina Jolie’s portrayal in the 2001 film “Lara Croft/Tomb Raider” and its 2003 sequel, as well as Alicia Vikander’s performance in the 2018 “Tomb Raider” film.
The series format now allows a longer form exploration of the character’s backstory and motivations, offering new opportunities for narrative complexity.
Industry analysts suggest that the move reflects a growing pattern of video game properties transitioning to streaming platforms.
“The trend is clear: studios are investing in video game IP because it comes with built in global audiences,” said media analyst Laura Simmons of Entertainment Research Associates.
She added that series formats allow for more detailed character development. “A television series provides depth and pacing that a two hour film cannot, which is crucial for a character as iconic as Lara Croft,” Simmons said.
From a production perspective, Prime Video’s involvement underscores the streaming platform’s strategy to compete with legacy networks and other streaming services, using established franchises to drive subscriptions and long term viewer engagement.
Sophie Turner commented on her casting in 2025: “I am thrilled beyond measure, to be playing Lara Croft. She is an iconic character, and I am giving everything I have to honor her legacy.”
Phoebe Waller Bridge added, “Everyone on board is passionate about Lara. We aim to capture her intelligence, humor, and bravery, creating a series that respects both longtime fans and newcomers.”
Media strategist Patrick Long highlighted the economic implications, “Big budget adaptations of video games can increase merchandising, global reach, and cross platform engagement.
‘Tomb Raider’ is a textbook case of leveraging intellectual property for multiple revenue streams.”
| Aspect | Previous Films | New Series |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Actress | Jolie, Vikander | Turner |
| Format | Feature film | Multi-episode TV series |
| Production Studio | MGM, Warner Bros | Amazon MGM Studios, Prime Video |
| Global Audience Reach | 100+ countries (film) | Streaming in multiple markets |
| Narrative Scope | 2 hours | Expanded episodic storytelling |
The series launch positions Prime Video to expand its portfolio of high-profile video game adaptations, following the success of shows like HBO’s “The Last of Us” and films such as “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.”
Analysts expect additional adaptations in the coming years, including a “God of War” series, reflecting the growing commercial and cultural significance of gaming franchises in mainstream media.
Sophie Turner’s portrayal of Lara Croft in Prime Video’s “Tomb Raider” series represents a convergence of gaming, streaming, and mainstream entertainment.
By blending a familiar franchise with new storytelling potential, the series exemplifies evolving content strategies for global audiences, reinforcing Lara Croft’s enduring relevance in popular culture.
Author’s Perspective
In my analysis, Prime Video’s Tomb Raider series signals a strategic pivot toward streaming adaptations of iconic gaming IPs, leveraging episodic storytelling to maximize global engagement and merchandise revenue.
I predict streaming platforms will adopt standardized metrics for video game adaptations, ensuring narrative fidelity and audience trust across markets.
For viewers and indie developers, this means richer storytelling and clearer pathways to global exposure. Track early casting and production announcements to anticipate IP valuation trends and fan engagement potential.
NOTE! This report was compiled from multiple reliable sources, including official statements, press releases, and verified media coverage.
