Manchester audiences have grown used to watching British talent break through on the global stage, but few careers have unfolded as publicly or as steadily as that of Sophie Turner. This January, the Warwickshire-born actor is once again at the centre of entertainment news after the release of the first official images from Prime Video’s upcoming Tomb Raider series.
Filming is now underway, and early reaction across the UK suggests this could mark the most important chapter of her post-Game of Thrones career.
First Look Images Spark Debate Across the UK
Production began in mid-January, with Amazon MGM Studios unveiling a first-look image showing Turner in Lara Croft’s signature outfit, including the green tank top, black shorts and twin holsters. The image spread quickly online and prompted intense discussion among fans of the long-running video game franchise.
Among British audiences, the response has been more measured than the global online reaction. In Manchester, where performances tend to matter more than hype, the conversation has focused on whether Turner can shape the role in her own way rather than imitate what came before.
That cautious optimism reflects a broader UK mood. There is clear excitement, but also recognition that Lara Croft is one of the most demanding roles in modern action television.
A Career That Grew Up in Public
Turner’s path to international fame began far from Hollywood. Raised in Chesterton, Warwickshire, she started acting at a young age after joining the Playbox Theatre Company in Warwick. A school drama teacher later encouraged her to audition for Game of Thrones, a decision that would transform her life.
Cast at just 13, she grew up on screen as Sansa Stark. Viewers across Greater Manchester watched her character develop from a frightened teenager into a political survivor, often in difficult and emotionally heavy storylines.
Unlike many child actors, Turner never attempted to erase her early work. Instead, her development as a performer happened in full view of the public, something that ultimately strengthened her credibility with UK audiences.
Returning to Britain After a Difficult Period
After her highly publicised divorce from American singer Joe Jonas, Turner made the decision to relocate permanently back to England. In interviews last year, she spoke openly about the emotional strain of living abroad and the comfort of returning home.
She described feeling disconnected while living in the United States and said being close to family and long-term friends was essential to her wellbeing.
For readers in Manchester and across the North, that return carries weight. It reinforces the sense that Turner remains rooted in British life, despite working at the highest level of international entertainment.
Proving Herself Beyond Game of Thrones
While Game of Thrones defined Turner’s early career, the years that followed tested her range. Large Hollywood productions such as X-Men: Dark Phoenix delivered mixed results and highlighted how difficult it can be for ensemble stars to transition into leading roles.
Her strongest post-HBO work came through British television. ITV’s crime drama Joan, released in late 2024, showed Turner in a far more demanding role as real-life jewel thief Joan Hannington.
Critics praised her ability to balance vulnerability with control, and the performance marked a turning point in how she was viewed within the UK industry. For many Manchester viewers, Joan confirmed she could lead complex narratives on her own terms.
A Busy 2026 Shows Clear Direction
This year sees Turner involved in several high-profile projects. Alongside Tomb Raider, she appears in Steal, a Prime Video thriller centred on financial crime, and The Dreadful, a gothic horror film that reunites her with former Game of Thrones co-star Kit Harington.
The latter has attracted particular interest due to its historical setting and darker tone. It also signals Turner’s willingness to explore challenging material rather than rely solely on franchise visibility.
Together, these roles point to a deliberate strategy focused on variety without overexposure.
The Challenge of Playing Lara Croft
Lara Croft is one of the most recognisable characters in modern entertainment. Previous portrayals by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander set a high bar, and Turner has acknowledged the pressure that comes with stepping into such a well-known role.
What reassures many British viewers is the creative team behind the series. The show is written and led by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, whose reputation for character-driven storytelling carries significant weight in the UK.
Early indications suggest the series will embrace the adventurous tone of the original games rather than pursue a purely gritty reboot.
Why This Moment Matters to UK Audiences
Turner’s career reflects a wider shift in British acting culture. Increasingly, performers are choosing to remain based in the UK while working internationally, rather than relocating permanently to Los Angeles.
For Manchester audiences, that approach feels relatable and grounded. There is pride in seeing British actors succeed globally while staying connected to home.
At 29, Turner appears more confident and selective than ever.
A Defining Year Ahead
Whether Tomb Raider develops into a long-running franchise remains uncertain. What is clear is that 2026 represents a pivotal moment in Turner’s career.
She enters this phase with experience, critical respect and greater creative control than at any previous stage. For viewers who have followed her journey since her teenage debut, her latest role feels like a natural progression rather than a risky leap.
If Lara Croft demands strength, intelligence and resilience, Sophie Turner arrives well prepared.
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FAQs
Is Sophie Turner really playing Lara Croft?
Yes. Sophie Turner has been officially cast as Lara Croft in Prime Video’s upcoming Tomb Raider television series. Filming began in January 2026, and first-look images have already been released by Amazon MGM Studios.
When will the Tomb Raider series starring Sophie Turner be released?
An exact release date has not yet been confirmed. The series is currently in production, with an expected release window in early 2027 on Prime Video.
Why is Sophie Turner returning to work in the UK?
After several years based in the United States, Turner has spoken openly about choosing to return to England to be closer to family and friends. She has said the move was important for her wellbeing and sense of stability.
What other projects is Sophie Turner working on in 2026?
Alongside Tomb Raider, Turner appears in the Prime Video thriller Steal and the gothic historical film The Dreadful, which reunites her with former Game of Thrones co-star Kit Harington.
Why does this role matter for Sophie Turner’s career?
Lara Croft is one of the most recognisable characters in modern entertainment. Taking on the role places Turner at the centre of a major global franchise and represents a key moment in her transition into long-term leading roles.
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