Sophie Turner is stepping into 2026 with a packed slate, but even as she promotes new work, the shadow of Game of Thrones still follows her. Best known for portraying Sansa Stark, Turner recently reflected on her complicated relationship with the iconic series—and made it clear that revisiting it isn’t exactly comforting.
With her upcoming heist thriller Steal set to release later this month, Turner has been making the media rounds, opening up about fame, pressure, and whether she’d ever return to Westeros.
Why Sophie Turner Avoids Rewatching Game of Thrones
During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Turner shared a candid moment when host Jimmy Fallon asked if she ever goes back and watches the series that made her a global star.
Her answer was an immediate no.
Turner admitted that even hearing the Game of Thrones theme song brings back uncomfortable memories. Looking back, she described her early years on the show as overwhelming—learning how to act while millions watched her grow up on screen. What audiences saw as an epic fantasy journey, she experienced as intense pressure and public vulnerability.
The actress also recalled watching the first season with her parents, only for them to quickly bow out—something that added to the awkwardness of experiencing the show in hindsight.
Would She Ever Return as Sansa Stark?
Despite her reluctance to revisit the past, Turner hasn’t completely shut the door on a comeback.
At a press conference for Steal, she was asked if she’d reprise Sansa Stark in any future spin-offs, including House of the Dragon. Her response was brief, playful, and instantly viral: “Show me the money.”
Later, in a separate interview with The Direct, Turner expanded on that thought, explaining that while returning could be exciting, it would also be emotionally complicated. She noted that Sansa’s ending in Game of Thrones felt complete—something many other characters didn’t get.
For Turner, any return would depend entirely on the story. Without the right script, she’s not interested in revisiting something that might dilute what once felt special.
The Game of Thrones Universe Isn’t Slowing Down
Even as Turner remains undecided, HBO continues to expand the franchise. The upcoming spin-off A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is scheduled to premiere on January 18, proving that Westeros is still very much alive.
With multiple projects in development, the possibility of legacy characters returning remains open—whether Turner ultimately chooses to be part of that future or not.
What’s Next: Steal on Prime Video
For now, Turner is focused on the present. Steal is set to begin streaming on Prime Video on January 21, marking one of her first major releases of the year.
The heist thriller also stars:
- Jacob Fortune-Lloyd
- Archie Madekwe
- Andrew Howard
- Ellie James
- Jonathan Slinger
The film positions Turner in a more grounded, contemporary role—far removed from medieval politics and royal betrayals.
Final Words
Sophie Turner’s honesty about Game of Thrones offers a rare glimpse into the cost of growing up inside one of television’s biggest phenomena. While fans may dream of seeing Sansa Stark return, Turner is clearly prioritizing meaning over nostalgia. Whether she ever steps back into Westeros or not, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year—one where she continues carving her path well beyond the Iron Throne.
