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Sophie Turner Is the New Lara Croft, but Not Everyone Is Sold

Updated :  Friday, January 16, 2026 5:07 AM
Sophie Turner as Lara Croft in Prime Video’s live‑action Tomb Raider series.

Sophie Turner is stepping into one of the most iconic action roles of all time — Lara Croft. Prime Video has officially unveiled the first look at Turner as the adventurous archaeologist in its upcoming Tomb Raider live‑action series. The reveal has sparked a wave of excitement, but also skepticism, as fans debate whether the Game of Thrones alum can live up to the character’s legendary legacy.

The First Look

The streaming giant shared a behind‑the‑scenes image of Turner in the classic Tomb Raider style, complete with the signature action‑ready look. The series is being spearheaded by Phoebe Waller‑Bridge, who is not only writing and creating the show but also serving as executive producer. Chad Hodge will co‑run the series, which boasts a star‑studded cast including Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, Sasha Luss, and Juliette Motamed.

Mixed Fan Reactions

Social media lit up immediately after the reveal. Many fans expressed excitement, with comments like, “Omg is this real??” and “She looks dope ngl.” Others, however, were less convinced. Some argued that Turner doesn’t resemble the Lara Croft they grew up with, while others compared her to Angelina Jolie, who famously portrayed the character in the early 2000s. One fan wrote, “Does not look like Lara Croft at all,” while another added, “Angelina Jolie nailed this role, why are we redoing it? Impossible bar for Sophie Turner.” The divided reactions highlight the challenge of rebooting such a beloved franchise.

A Legacy of Adventure

Since her debut in 1996, Lara Croft has been a trailblazing female action icon. The character has inspired blockbuster films, remastered video games, and countless cosplays. With new titles like Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis and Tomb Raider: Catalyst slated for release in 2026, the franchise continues to evolve for new generations. Prime Video’s adaptation aims to capture Lara’s fearless spirit while introducing fresh narratives. Turner’s casting signals a bold new direction, blending her dramatic acting background with the physical demands of the role.

What’s Next

The upcoming series is expected to premiere later this year, bringing Lara Croft’s adventures to a whole new audience. While some fans remain skeptical, others are eager to see how Turner interprets the character’s mix of intelligence, strength, and vulnerability. For now, the debate continues online. Will Sophie Turner redefine Lara Croft for a modern era, or will comparisons to past portrayals overshadow her performance? Only time — and the series premiere — will tell.

Kelly Powers

Kelly Powers is an entertainment writer who brings the world of movies, music, and celebrity culture to life for audiences across the U.S. and beyond. With a flair for storytelling and a deep love for pop culture, she covers Hollywood trends, streaming sensations, and global entertainment news with insight and style. Kelly’s writing keeps readers informed, entertained, and always in tune with what’s hot in the entertainment world.