Sophie Turner is set to make a significant return to the screen following her breakout role in Game of Thrones, where she portrayed Sansa Stark for eight seasons. After an extended hiatus from Hollywood, the actress is gearing up for a busy 2026 with the release of her new series Steal on January 21, 2026, and a lead role in the upcoming Tomb Raider series.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, the 29-year-old actress discussed her journey of self-discovery outside of her iconic character. Turner explained, “I got sent so many period dramas about princesses who start off weak and end up learning and developing and growing into strength. I had to separate myself from all that.” This necessity for personal growth became evident after the Game of Thrones finale in May 2019, as she grappled with her identity in the industry.
Turner’s personal life has also influenced her career trajectory. She began dating singer Joe Jonas in 2016, and the couple married in 2019. They welcomed two daughters, Willa and Delphine, in 2020 and 2022, respectively. However, the couple announced their separation in late 2023, finalizing their divorce in late 2024. Reflecting on her experiences, Turner noted, “It’s a total fishbowl,” acknowledging the challenges of navigating her personal life in the public eye.
While Turner stepped back from acting following Game of Thrones, she did not disappear completely from the scene. She appeared in projects such as HBO’s The Staircase and the ITV series Joan. Nevertheless, she feels this year marks a resurgence in her career. “It’s really nice. I’m not worrying about my biological clock… it just felt like the right break to focus on me,” she stated.
As her daughters grow older, Turner is ready to embrace her work again. The upcoming series Steal follows an office worker embroiled in a heist, showcasing a departure from her previous work. Additionally, she is training extensively for her role as Lara Croft in the new Tomb Raider series, which also features actors Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs. Production for this highly-anticipated adaptation began in February 2024.
Turner’s career is not solely about new projects; she is also reconnecting with former co-stars. She will reunite with Kit Harington in the gothic horror film The Dreadful, set for release on February 20, 2024.
Overall, Sophie Turner’s thoughtful approach to her career and personal life has allowed her to prioritize her identity and family. As she prepares to return to the spotlight, it is clear that her time away has not only shaped her as an actress but also as an individual ready to embrace new challenges.
