The upcoming Prime Video adaptation of Tomb Raider, masterminded by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, has added a genuine prince to its already illustrious cast. August Wittgenstein, a 44-year-old member of the German princely House of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg, is the latest name to join the adventure series.
From Royalty to the Screen: The Prince's New Role
In what marks his most high-profile part to date, Wittgenstein will play an adventurer named Lukas, acting opposite Sophie Turner who takes on the iconic role of Lara Croft. The series, which began development some time ago, boasts an impressive roster including acting veterans Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, and Celia Imrie.
August Wittgenstein is no stranger to royal portrayals, having previously played Grand Duke Georg Donatus of Hesse, a relative of Prince Philip, in a flashback episode of Netflix's The Crown. His acting journey, however, began much earlier. He started appearing in short films and German-language television in 2008 and has since featured in projects like Ron Howard's Angels & Demons and the Swedish drama Avalon.
A Noble Background and Thespian Dreams
Born into nobility, Wittgenstein's mother is Swedish Countess Yvonne Wachtmeister af Johannishus. He and his sisters grew up bilingual, speaking both German and Swedish. Despite his aristocratic upbringing, his career path was inspired by childhood viewings of Sean Connery as James Bond.
His parents were initially unsupportive of his acting ambitions, as reported by Tatler. To forge his own path in the film industry, he condensed his full name—Prince August Fredrik zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg—to the simpler August Wittgenstein. He trained at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts to hone his craft.
Personal Life and Professional Support
In his personal life, Wittgenstein married psychologist Mia Rohla in 2022. The couple had a lavish reception at the historic Wittgenstein Castle. He has shared that his wife, a cognitive behavioural therapist, provides invaluable insight for his roles. "Mia provides me with a whole treasure trove of information," he told Bunte, noting he consults her on character psychology.
On social media, Wittgenstein shares glimpses of his filming projects alongside personal passions, including his wife, dogs, and craft beer—a topic he once hosted a podcast about. He excitedly announced his Tomb Raider casting to followers, writing: "Beyond thrilled to join the cast of #TombRaider!"
The series, one of Prime Video's most ambitious projects, will follow the adventures of archaeologist Lara Croft. Sophie Turner has expressed both excitement and reverence for the role, acknowledging the "massive shoes to fill" after performances by Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander, but expressed confidence in Waller-Bridge's leadership. The show is currently in production, with fans eagerly awaiting its release.
