Sophie Turner is stepping into one of gaming’s most iconic roles, but she’s determined to bring a fresh perspective. The Game of Thrones star will lead Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming Tomb Raider live-action series, and she has made it clear that her version of Lara Croft will not be portrayed as a “sex bombshell.”
A Capable Hero, Not a Pin-Up
Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Turner explained her vision for the character. “It’s about her and her story and what drives her, rather than what so many people also love about her, which is how hot she is in the games and the movies,” she said. Turner emphasized that her Croft is “unashamedly capable” and refuses to hide her strengths.
A Modern Take on a Classic Character
In the original video games, Lara Croft became famous for her tight shorts and fitted tops, often accentuating her appearance. Official images of Turner in costume show her in a similar outfit, complete with a gun holster, but without the exaggerated emphasis on her chest. The shift reflects Turner’s desire to highlight Croft’s intelligence, resilience, and resourcefulness rather than her looks.
Backed by a Star-Studded Team
The series, created and executive produced by Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, will serve as an origin story for Croft. Directed by Jonathan Van Tulleken, the show features a strong supporting cast. Sigourney Weaver plays Evelyn Wallis, a powerful woman eager to exploit Lara’s talents. Celia Imrie portrays Francine, head of advancement at the British Museum, while Jason Isaacs takes on the role of Croft’s uncle, Atlas DeMornay.
Grueling Training for the Role
Turner revealed she underwent a year-long physical transformation to prepare. “We’ve been doing eight hours a day, five days a week since February of last year, of training,” she said on The Julia Cunningham Show. The intense regimen left her with a recurring back problem but also helped her build strength. “It’s taken me months and months to get into good shape,” she admitted.
A Fierce Female Role Model
Turner has long admired Lara Croft, calling her a “fierce female role model” in a male-dominated world. “She has always felt very emboldened to me,” Turner said, expressing excitement about bringing a new dimension to the character. With Turner’s thoughtful approach, Waller-Bridge’s creative vision, and a powerhouse cast, the Tomb Raider remake aims to redefine Lara Croft for a new generation—focusing on her courage, intelligence, and humanity rather than her sex appeal.
