<h2 data-path-to-node="1">From Sansa to Survivor: Sophie Turner Embraces the Classic Tomb Raider Aesthetic</h2><h2 data-path-to-node="2"></h2>

The world of archaeology and high stakes adventure has a new face and it belongs to a familiar queen of the screen. Amazon MGM Studios recently set the internet ablaze by releasing the first official image of Sophie Turner as the legendary Lara Croft for the upcoming Prime Video series Tomb Raider. 

The reveal comes as a breath of fresh air for long time enthusiasts of the franchise who have been waiting for a live action adaptation that truly honors the pixelated origins of the 1990s. Turner, who rose to global stardom as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, is now trading her northern furs for a teal tank top and dual holsters in a look that many are calling the most faithful recreation of the character to date.

The first look image, which serves as a wardrobe test released to celebrate the start of production in January 2026, showcases Turner in an outfit that is undeniably back to basics. Eschewing the gritty and layered survivalist gear seen in recent reboots, this version of Lara Croft embraces the vibrant and iconic aesthetic of the original PlayStation era.

 Turner is pictured wearing the signature turquoise teal tank top paired with rugged black shorts and the essential tactical belt. Perhaps the most exciting detail for fans is the inclusion of the classic crimson red circular sunglasses and the dual pistols strapped firmly to her thighs.

This design choice signals a significant shift in how the character is being handled. While previous films starring Alicia Vikander focused on a grounded origin story influenced by the 2013 game reboot, this new series appears to be leaning into the larger than life persona of the original games. The presence of the fingerless leather gloves and the tightly braided hair further solidifies the connection to the classic Tomb Raider silhouette that defined an entire generation of gaming.

Behind the scenes the series is being spearheaded by the award winning Phoebe Waller Bridge who serves as the creator, writer, and executive producer. Known for her razor sharp wit and ability to craft complex female leads in shows like Fleabag and Killing Eve, Waller Bridge brings a unique perspective to the franchise. In her public statements she has expressed a deep rooted love for the character of Lara Croft, describing her as a fierce role model who thrives in a male dominated world.

The collaboration between Waller Bridge and Turner is a pairing that has generated immense hype. Turner herself has noted that she is giving everything she has to the role, acknowledging the massive shoes she has to fill following the performances of Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander.

 To prepare for the demanding physical nature of the series, Turner reportedly engaged in an intensive training regimen for nearly a year, including combat training and athletic conditioning to ensure she can handle the stunts required for a world class adventurer.

While Sophie Turner is the undisputed lead, the Prime Video series has surrounded her with an incredible supporting cast that adds significant weight to the production. The legendary Sigourney Weaver joins the ensemble as Evelyn Wallis, a mysterious woman who seeks to exploit Lara’s unique talents for her own ends. Jason Isaacs has been cast as Atlas DeMornay, Lara’s uncle, a character with deep roots in the franchise lore.

The series also brings back several beloved canon characters from the games. Bill Paterson takes on the role of Winston, the faithful Croft family butler, while Martin Bobb Semple portrays Zip, the tech savvy confidant who provides Lara with the tools and information she needs for her expeditions. Other cast members include Jack Bannon as Lara’s personal pilot Gerry and Celia Imrie as a high society figure at the British Museum. This blend of classic characters and new faces suggests a rich world that will explore both the professional and personal life of the world's most famous archaeologist.

One of the biggest challenges for any adaptation of a beloved franchise is balancing the expectations of veteran fans with the needs of a modern audience. The reaction to Turner’s look has been largely positive, with many praising the production for moving away from the overly realistic dirt and grime of the survivor era in favor of the bold and adventurous spirit of the 1990s.

By returning to the classic color palette and signature accessories, the series is tapping into a powerful sense of nostalgia. However, the involvement of Phoebe Waller Bridge ensures that the narrative will likely be sophisticated and nuanced. The show aims to present Lara not just as an action hero, but as a brilliant and witty woman who is as capable of navigating social circles at the British Museum as she is at raiding ancient tombs in the jungle.

With principal photography now officially underway at the start of 2026, the countdown has begun for the show's eventual release on Prime Video. While a specific premiere date has yet to be announced, the start of filming suggests that audiences might see the series in late 2026 or early 2027. This live action series is part of a broader resurgence for the brand, which also includes new video game entries and remakes of the original titles.

Sophie Turner’s transformation into Lara Croft represents a pivotal moment for her career and the franchise as a whole. By embracing the back to basics aesthetic, the production has managed to capture the imagination of the public and prove that some looks are truly timeless. As Lara Croft prepares to set off on her next grand adventure, it is clear that she is in very capable hands.