Full Breakdown
Sophie Turner Discovers Chronic Health Issue During Tomb Raider Training
1/19/2026, 8:32:39 PM
Training Challenges and Health Discovery
Sophie Turner, best known for her role as Sansa Stark in HBO's "Game of Thrones," has revealed that she discovered a chronic health issue while preparing for her upcoming role as Lara Croft in the new "Tomb Raider" television series. During an appearance on SiriusXM’s “The Julia Cunningham Show,” Turner disclosed that her training regimen has been intense, involving eight hours a day, five days a week since February 2025. This rigorous schedule led her to uncover a "perpetual back problem," which she attributed to her lack of prior workout experience. "I’ve learned I have a perpetual back problem, but I also realised that it’s much easier to kind of build muscle if you’ve ever worked out before in your life, which I never had," she stated.
Transition from Game of Thrones to Tomb Raider
Turner emphasized that her experience on "Game of Thrones" did not prepare her for the physical demands of portraying Lara Croft. She noted, "I was the cool queen who, like, didn't have to do that. I also just kind of was the one that got beat up, not the one doing the beating." This transition marks a significant shift in her acting career, as she moves from a character primarily involved in dramatic narratives to one that requires physical prowess and action sequences.
Production and Creative Team
The new "Tomb Raider" series is being produced by Amazon MGM and is a remake of the earlier films featuring Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander. The series is spearheaded by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who serves as writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner. Waller-Bridge expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Tomb Raider boasts a plethora of iconic characters. I am thrilled to have been able to bring some personal and fan favourites to the screen while also introducing a few new rascals of our own to the mix." The cast includes notable actors such as Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs, further elevating the series' profile.
Official Statements & Responses
Amazon confirmed Turner’s casting in September 2025, and the production is currently underway. The first official image of Turner as Lara Croft was released recently, showcasing her in a combat-ready outfit, which has garnered positive reactions from fans.
Criticism & Opposition
While Turner’s health disclosure has drawn attention, it also highlights the physical toll that demanding roles can take on actors. Critics may point to the pressures of the entertainment industry that compel actors to undergo such rigorous training, potentially leading to health issues.
What's Next
The "Tomb Raider" series does not yet have a confirmed premiere date, but it is anticipated to be a significant addition to Prime Video's lineup. Turner is also set to star in the drama "Steal," which will premiere on January 21, 2026.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’ve learned I have a perpetual back problem, but I also realised that it’s much easier to kind of build muscle if you’ve ever worked out before in your life, which I never had, so it has taken me months and months and months to get into good shape.” — Sophie Turner
- “I also just kind of was the one that got beat up, not the one doing the beating.” — Sophie Turner
- “Tomb Raider boasts a plethora of iconic characters. I am thrilled to have been able to bring some personal and fan favourites to the screen while also introducing a few new rascals of our own to the mix. This cast is beyond my wildest dreams!” — Phoebe Waller-Bridge
