Sophie Turner Steps into the Light
Amazon MGM Studios officially broke the internet this week, pulling back the curtain on one of the most anticipated television reboots in recent memory. On Thursday, January 15, 2026, the studio released the first official image of Sophie Turner as the legendary archaeologist Lara Croft for the upcoming Prime Video series, Tomb Raider.
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The reveal has sent shockwaves through the global fan base. Dressed in her signature emerald-green tank top, black shorts, and sporting those iconic dual pistols, the Game of Thrones alumna looks like she has walked straight out of the 1996 original PlayStation title. For many long-time fans of the franchise, this “classic” aesthetic is a refreshing return to form after years of grittier, more grounded reboots.
Sophie Turner Production Kicks Off in Culver City
The announcement coincided with the official start of production. Filming is currently underway at the Amazon MGM Studios lot in Culver City, California, where massive sets have been constructed to bring ancient ruins and treacherous landscapes to life. The series, which was first greenlighted in late 2024, is being positioned as the cornerstone of a new “unified” Tomb Raider universe.
Behind the scenes, the creative firepower is just as impressive as the lead actress. Primetime Emmy winner Phoebe Waller-Bridge, known for the hit series Fleabag, is serving as the creator and executive producer. Waller-Bridge has expressed a deep personal passion for the character, promising a version of Lara that balances the witty, rebellious nature of the original games with the emotional depth expected in modern prestige television.
A Transformation Born of Discipline
Stepping into the boots of an action hero is no small feat, and Turner has been vocal about the physical toll of the role. Speaking recently on The Julia Cunningham Show, the actress admitted that she had never pursued a rigorous fitness regimen before landing this part.
“I’ve learned I have a perpetual back problem, but I also realized that it’s much easier to build muscle if you’ve ever worked out before in your life—which I never had,” Turner joked. Her preparation reportedly began nearly a year ago, involving high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and boxing to prepare for the show’s demanding stunt sequences.
The actress noted the contrast between her new role and her decade-long stint as Sansa Stark. While Sansa was a character who often had to endure hardship and survive through political wit, Lara Croft is a woman who “does the beating,” allowing Turner to explore a much more physical side of her craft.
A Star-Studded Supporting Cast
While Turner is the face of the series, she is backed by a powerhouse ensemble. The production has confirmed that Sigourney Weaver will appear as Evelyn Wallis, a mysterious figure with a hidden interest in Lara’s unique talents.
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Veteran actor Jason Isaacs has also joined the cast as Atlas DeMornay, Lara’s uncle, while Paterson Joseph will portray the fan-favorite butler, Winston. Other notable names include Celia Imrie and Martin Bobb-Semple, the latter of whom will play Zip, Lara’s tech-savvy right-hand man.
The Return of the Tomb Raider
The timing of the series coincides with a massive resurgence for the franchise. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the first Tomb Raider game, and fans have more than just a TV show to look forward to.
Amazon Game Studios recently confirmed that Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, a modern reimagining of the 1996 debut, is slated for a late 2026 release. A second title, Tomb Raider: Catalyst, is expected to follow in 2027. This multi-media push aims to bridge the gap between long-time gamers and a new generation of viewers who may only know Lara Croft through her cinematic history.
Initial reactions to Sophie Turner look have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms like X and Instagram were flooded with comments from fans relieved to see the return of the “Classic Lara” silhouette. “She looks exactly like the character I grew up playing,” one fan noted. “If the writing matches the look, Prime Video has a massive hit on their hands.”
As production continues in Culver City, the entertainment world remains fixated on whether Turner can successfully carry the mantle previously held by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander. Given the pedigree of the creative team and the early buzz surrounding Turner’s transformation, the odds seem to be in her favor.
Closing Paragraph: With filming now in full swing and the first look generating massive engagement, Reeo News will continue to monitor the production for further updates on the release schedule and trailer drops.
