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Full Breakdown

Amazon Prime Video's Upcoming "Tomb Raider" Series Casts Martin Bobb-Semple

12/2/2025, 2:54:14 AM

Key Cast and Production Details

Amazon Prime Video's highly anticipated "Tomb Raider" live-action series is set to begin production on January 19, 2026. The series will feature Sophie Turner, known for her role as Sansa Stark in "Game of Thrones," as the iconic character Lara Croft. Recently, British actor Martin Bobb-Semple has been confirmed to join the cast as a series regular, although specific details about his character remain undisclosed. Bobb-Semple is recognized for his roles in "All American: Homecoming," "One of Us Is Lying," and "Free Rein."

The series is being developed under the creative direction of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who serves as the creator, writer, and executive producer. Chad Hodge will co-showrun alongside Waller-Bridge, with Jonathan van Tulleken also contributing as an executive producer and director. The project has been in development since early 2023 and was officially greenlit in May 2024.

Background and Context

The "Tomb Raider" series is part of a broader initiative by Amazon MGM Studios to expand the franchise, which has previously seen adaptations in film and animation. The character of Lara Croft has been portrayed by Angelina Jolie in the early 2000s and Alicia Vikander in the 2018 reboot. This new series aims to bring a fresh perspective to the character while maintaining the essence that has captivated audiences for years.

Official Statements & Responses

Phoebe Waller-Bridge expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’m so excited to announce the formidable Sophie Turner as our Lara alongside this phenomenal creative team.” Turner herself remarked on the challenge of stepping into the role, acknowledging the legacy of previous portrayals: “They’re massive shoes to fill... but with Phoebe at the helm, we (and Lara) are all in very safe hands.”

Criticism & Opposition

Despite the excitement surrounding the series, there have been reports of creative differences during its development, leading to multiple writers' rooms and significant investment in development costs. Matthew Belloni of Puck noted that "tens of millions" were spent on the project, raising questions about the series' direction and management.

What's Next

As production approaches, anticipation builds for further casting announcements and details about the storyline. The series does not yet have an official premiere date, but it is expected to be a significant addition to Amazon Prime Video's original content lineup.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “I’m so excited to announce the formidable Sophie Turner as our Lara alongside this phenomenal creative team,” — Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Creator/Executive Producer
  • “They’re massive shoes to fill, following in the steps of Angelina and Alicia with their powerhouse performances, but with Phoebe at the helm, we (and Lara) are all in very safe hands.” — Sophie Turner, Lara Croft