First Look: Sophie Turner Suits Up as Lara Croft in ‘Tomb Raider’

The New Face of Adventure

The long-awaited search for the next Lady Croft has officially concluded with a striking visual statement. Prime Video today released the first official production still from its upcoming "Tomb Raider" series, featuring Sophie Turner in full costume as the world’s most famous archaeologist-adventurer. The image, which has already sent shockwaves through the gaming and cinematic communities, confirms that production is now officially underway on what Amazon MGM Studios intends to be a flagship franchise for its streaming platform.

The first-look image captures Turner in a moment of quiet, intense focus. Gone are the bright, saturated tones and stylized aesthetics of the early 2000s films. In their place is a gritty, grounded look that seems to draw heavy inspiration from the 2013 video game reboot. Turner is seen clad in practical, weathered tactical gear—a muted grey tank top and rugged cargo trousers—with her skin marked by the grime and sweat of a recent excursion. The lighting is moody and atmospheric, suggesting a series that will lean heavily into the "tomb" aspect of the title, focusing on the claustrophobia, danger, and mystery of ancient, unexplored environments.

A Global Search Concluded

The casting of Sophie Turner follows an intensive global search that reportedly saw dozens of high-profile actresses screen-test for the coveted role. The "Game of Thrones" star, who rose to international fame playing Sansa Stark, was selected for her ability to balance Lara Croft’s aristocratic British background with the raw, survivalist instincts required for the character's more harrowing exploits. Sources close to the production suggest that Turner’s performance aims to bring a new level of physical and emotional depth to the role, portraying a version of Lara who is as vulnerable as she is formidable.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Creative Vision

Behind the camera, the series is being spearheaded by Emmy winner Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who serves as the creator, writer, and executive producer. Waller-Bridge’s involvement has been a major point of interest since the project was first announced. Known for her sharp wit and complex female protagonists in "Fleabag" and "Killing Eve," she is expected to provide a fresh perspective on the character. Waller-Bridge has previously expressed her lifelong love for the "Tomb Raider" games, promising a show that is "dangerous, exciting, and deeply human." Her script is said to move beyond the "action pin-up" tropes of decades past to explore the psychological drive of a woman obsessed with the secrets of history.

What Fans Can Expect

The first-look image has already sparked intense discussion among fans, who are dissecting every detail of the costume. Many have noted the inclusion of subtle nods to the source material, such as the iconic jade pendant and the tactical climbing gear visible in the background. The general consensus among the community is one of cautious optimism, with many praising the decision to pursue a more realistic and grounded tone. Based on the production's current trajectory, the series is expected to deliver:

• A deeper exploration of Lara’s family history and the trauma that drives her.
• High-octane action sequences that prioritize practical stunts and physical realism.
• Stunning global locations, with filming reportedly taking place in the UK and South Africa.
• A focus on complex archaeological puzzles and ancient mythology.

Expanding the Tomb Raider Universe

This series is a cornerstone of Amazon’s broader strategy for the "Tomb Raider" IP. Following the acquisition of MGM, Amazon has been working to build a connected universe that spans video games, film, and television. This series is intended to be the flagship of that effort, serving as the central hub for the franchise’s narrative expansion. With a massive budget and a high-profile creative team, the stakes are incredibly high for Prime Video, which is looking for its next major hit following the success of "Fallout" and "The Boys."

The Road Ahead

As production continues, the industry is watching closely. The success of recent video game adaptations has proven that these stories can be both critical and commercial juggernauts when handled with respect for the source material. With Sophie Turner at the helm and Phoebe Waller-Bridge guiding the narrative, "Tomb Raider" is poised to be the next big event in prestige television. While a firm release date has yet to be announced, a late 2025 or early 2026 debut seems likely. For now, this first glimpse of Turner in character serves as a powerful reminder that the hunt for artifacts—and the legend of Lara Croft—is far from over.