Essential Highlights
- Lara Croft is voiced by Hayley Atwell in the new animated series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft.
- The first season is currently available on Netflix, but there are no updates about subsequent seasons.
- Atwell expresses her enthusiasm to continue portraying Lara in various forms.
A newly released animated series titled Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft on Netflix showcases a fresh interpretation of the beloved character, with Hayley Atwell providing the voice for the legendary video game hero. In recent discussions, Atwell has shared her aspirations for her ongoing association with the franchise.
The series occurs chronologically after the widely acclaimed Survivor trilogy developed by Crystal Dynamics, which encompasses the 2013 reboot alongside Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Hayley Atwell, known for her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, joins a noteworthy lineup of actresses who have portrayed Lara Croft, including Camilla Luddington, Angelina Jolie, Alicia Vikander, and Keeley Hawes.
All episodes from Season 1 of Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft became available on Netflix on October 10, 2024, though there hasn’t been any announcement regarding potential future seasons. Nevertheless, Atwell has shown a keen interest in further pursuing her role as Lara Croft. In an interview with GamesRadar+, she expressed her desire “to remain involved or find a different way to connect with [Lara Croft],”adding that it “would be a dream come true and a responsibility I would take very seriously, given her popularity and recognition.”Atwell reflected positively on her experience working on the series, commending its “enhanced animation”and its effort to delve into the emotional aspects of Lara Croft.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with this creative team. Working alongside [director Meredith Layne] and [showrunner Tasha Huo] has been fantastic, particularly with Netflix’s support. It truly feels like elevated animation, and they were genuinely committed to capturing the emotional depth of the character. I would feel honored to continue in some capacity or to have Lara play a role in my life in another form,” she stated.
Atwell’s most likely association with Lara Croft appears to be tied to potential future seasons of the Netflix animated show; however, she is also open to exploring other forms of enacting the character. “I would be completely honored to carry on in some manner, or to connect with Lara in a different way, without a doubt,” she remarked.
Following a period of dormancy, the Tomb Raider franchise is currently experiencing significant growth. Crystal Dynamics has confirmed that a new Tomb Raider game is in the works, alongside a live-action TV adaptation being developed for Amazon Prime Video by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. As of now, casting details for both projects remain unannounced, leaving the door open for Atwell to reprise her role as Lara Croft in either venture, depending on creative directions chosen by the developers.
A significant goal of the new Netflix animated series is to streamline the various timelines present in the Tomb Raider franchise. If this aspiration continues, keeping Atwell as the voice of Lara Croft could unify the character’s portrayal. The talented actress has showcased her voice acting abilities sufficient for the animated role and possesses extensive action experience from both the MCU and Mission: Impossible, making her a strong candidate for live-action opportunities should they arise. Moreover, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft concluded its first season on a cliffhanger, ensuring that Atwell’s journey as the character may extend if the Netflix series is granted a renewal for additional seasons.
Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is now available for streaming on Netflix.
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