Amazon’s highly anticipated Tomb Raider series just got a major boost with two Hollywood heavyweights joining the cast.
Jason Isaacs and Sigourney Weaver are officially on board to star alongside Sophie Turner in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s live-action adaptation of the iconic video game franchise.
The announcement confirms weeks of speculation after Deadline first reported both actors were circling the project.
With Waller-Bridge at the helm as creator, writer, and co-showrunner, expectations for this series are sky-high—and this casting news suggests Amazon is pulling out all the stops.
Star Power Joins Lara Croft’s World
Isaacs will portray Atlas DeMornay, a character pulled directly from Tomb Raider canon. Weaver takes on the role of Evelyn Wallis, described as a mysterious, high-flying woman intent on exploiting Lara’s extraordinary talents.
These aren’t just supporting roles—they’re pivotal characters who will likely shape Turner’s Lara Croft throughout her adventures.
Turner steps into shoes previously worn by Angelina Jolie, who portrayed Lara Croft in the early 2000s film franchise. The pressure is on, but with Waller-Bridge’s acclaimed writing credentials and this stellar cast, Turner has serious support.
Canon Characters and Fresh Faces
Beyond the marquee names, Amazon has assembled an ensemble that blends beloved characters from the games with original creations.
From the Tomb Raider canon:
- Martin Bobb-Semple as Zip
- Bill Paterson as Winston
New characters created for the series:
- Jack Bannon plays Gerry
- John Heffernan takes on David
- Celia Imrie (Celebrity Traitors UK alum) portrays Francine
Additional cast members include Paterson Joseph, Sasha Luss, Juliette Motamed, and August Wittgenstein, though their specific roles haven’t been detailed yet.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Vision
Waller-Bridge didn’t hold back her enthusiasm about the casting choices.
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.
The Fleabag creator’s involvement has been the project’s biggest selling point since announcement. Her sharp writing, complex character development, and ability to balance humor with emotional depth could give this adaptation exactly what previous attempts have lacked.
She serves as creator, writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner alongside Chad Hodge. Jonathan Van Tulleken will direct and executive produce.
Amazon vs. Netflix: Battle of the Lara Crofts
This isn’t the only Tomb Raider project competing for audience attention.
Netflix recently aired the second and final season of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft, an animated series starring Hayley Atwell. While that project has concluded, Amazon’s live-action series represents a fresh start—and potentially a longer-term franchise play.
The streaming wars continue, and Tomb Raider has become another battleground. Amazon clearly believes their approach—combining Waller-Bridge’s creative vision with A-list talent—will deliver the definitive modern adaptation.
Production Powerhouses Behind the Scenes
The series comes from an impressive lineup of production companies and executives:
- Amazon MGM Studios
- Crystal Dynamics (the game developer)
- Wells Street Films (Waller-Bridge and Jenny Robins)
- Story Kitchen (Dmitri M. Johnson, Michael Lawrence Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson)
- Legendary Television
Michael Scheel executive produces, with Matt McInnis as co-executive producer and Jan R. Martin as producer.
Having Crystal Dynamics directly involved ensures the series stays true to the games that made Lara Croft a cultural icon.
What This Means for Fans
For longtime Tomb Raider enthusiasts, this casting announcement delivers validation. Amazon isn’t treating this as just another video game adaptation—they’re investing in prestige television.
Isaacs brings gravitas and complexity to every role, from his villainous Lucius Malfoy to recent dramatic turns. Weaver’s legendary status speaks for itself, with iconic performances spanning decades.
Combined with Turner’s rising star power and Waller-Bridge’s creative control, this project has legitimate potential to become appointment viewing.
The series follows world-famous archaeologist and adventurer Lara Croft through her globe-trotting exploits. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the character list suggests a mix of action, mystery, and the morally complex storytelling Waller-Bridge excels at.
Production details including premiere date haven’t been announced, but with casting now locked, cameras should start rolling soon. Given the scale and ambition, expect this series to dominate conversation when it eventually arrives on Prime Video.