The long-anticipated Tomb Raider television series is finally taking shape, with renowned Emmy-winning writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge at the helm. Known for her work on critically acclaimed shows like Fleabag and Killing Eve, Waller-Bridge brings an impressive pedigree that raises expectations for the series. Currently in development for Prime Video, the project aims to breathe new life into the iconic franchise, which has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in the 1990s.
As the excitement builds, rumors swirl around the casting of the iconic lead role of Lara Croft. Two names that have garnered attention are Sophie Turner, celebrated for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, and Lucy Boynton, who dazzled audiences with her performance in Bohemian Rhapsody. According to Deadline, while these actresses are on the “wishlist,” auditions have yet to commence, making this an intriguing phase in the casting process.
The legacy of Lara Croft is substantial, with Oscar-winners Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander previously stepping into her shoes. Each rendition brought a unique flavor to the character—Jolie’s films delivered blockbuster action and star power, while Vikander’s adaptation presented a more grounded, gritty narrative. Following the relatively successful 2018 movie, which grossed $275 million globally, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding this new series. After all, the casting of Lara Croft could significantly impact the show’s reception in an industry where fan expectations run high.
Deadline suggests that the casting search for Lara could become “one of the hottest TV casting searches” of the fall season, indicating not only the significance of the role but also the competitive nature of attracting talent. Names such as Emma Corrin from Deadpool and Wolverine and Mackenzie Davis from Station Eleven have entered the conversation, although they are not believed to be testing for the role currently.
This upcoming adaptation is especially intriguing as it is tied to both the film franchise and the gaming universe. Amazon, who is producing the series, is also behind the next Tomb Raider game’s release. Interestingly, the game is not connected to the TV series, presenting an opportunity to explore different narratives while nurturing the brand’s expansive lore.
Waller-Bridge’s insight into franchise storytelling, drawn from her experiences with both Indiana Jones and James Bond, suggests that the series may delve deeper into character development and motivation. “The character of Lara Croft was inspired by Indiana Jones and James Bond,” Waller-Bridge mentioned, hinting at her intention to harmonize the series’ direction with the values and complexities seen in modern storytelling.
As the casting process unfolds, fans of the franchise and newcomers alike will be watching closely. With a fresh vision from Waller-Bridge and the mingling of talent in Hollywood’s elite, the Tomb Raider television series holds the promise of engaging storytelling while paying homage to a beloved character. Whether the series can deliver a defining take on Lara Croft remains to be seen, but the anticipation alone signals a new chapter in the Tomb Raider legacy.
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