KEELEY HAWES RETURNS TO THE TOMB RAIDER FRANCHISE IN AMAZON PRIME SERIES

Two decades after lending her voice to one of gaming's most iconic heroines, Keeley Hawes is set to return to the Tomb Raider franchise in Amazon Prime's forthcoming television adaptation, having originally voiced Lara Croft in the popular video game series for three titles. According to British newspaper The Sun, Hawes will take on a markedly different role in the new series as production begins.

Exclusive images from the set show Hawes clad in a trench coat and carrying a shopping bag, flanked by figures in dark attire, some wearing studded masks. Observers suggest she may be portraying a maternal figure in the story, with speculation mounting that she could take on the role of Lady Amelia Croft, the Countess of Abbingdon, Lara Croft's mother. Hawes has previously portrayed upper-class ladies in dramas such as Summer of Rockets and Upstairs Downstairs, lending weight to this theory.

Sophie Turner, best known for her work on Game of Thrones and X-Men, assumes the role of British adventurer Lara Croft, while the series' ensemble cast also features Hollywood legend Sigourney Weaver, The Celebrity Traitors star Celia Imrie, and Harry Potter actor Jason Isaacs. The show is expected to premiere on Amazon Prime Video next year.

Hawes previously reflected on her enduring connection to the Tomb Raider franchise, telling The Sun: "I meet people who are big fans of the game; some of the nicest people I have ever met. The fans love the game. They love Lara and are passionate for her. She's been around for 20 years and she's a huge part of the teenage years of so many people."

Tomb Raider Live Action Series, Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics