Mahershala Ali Eager for Marvel's Blade Update

While promoting his new film Jurassic World Rebirth, Mahershala Ali has shared multiple disappointing updates about Marvel's missing-in-action Blade project.

The Blade reboot was initially unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019 with plans for a November 2024 release. However, after cycling through multiple directors and six years of development hell, Mahershala Ali's Blade still hasn't materialized.

The film disappeared from Marvel's schedule eight months ago without a replacement date, though studio head Kevin Feige maintains the project isn't scrapped. "We remain committed to Blade and to Mahershala's version of the character," Feige told Omelete in November 2024. "Rest assured when we reschedule projects, we'll update fans accordingly. The Daywalker will join the MCU."

When pressed by Variety, Ali offered vague comments: "Call Marvel. I'm prepared whenever they are." His remarks to The Hollywood Reporter were more telling: "I truly hope Blade happens, but who knows where Marvel stands now? Honestly, I'm just seeking my next compelling role."

Insiders have revealed troubling details about the film's collapse. Grammy-winning artist Flying Lotus posted: "I was contracted to score Blade before it dissolved. Doubt it'll resurface." Meanwhile, Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter disclosed her 1920s-inspired designs were abandoned when production halted.

Co-star Delroy Lindo told Entertainment Weekly: "The creative discussions were phenomenally collaborative before everything derailed."

25 Greatest MCU Superheroes

View 26 Images

Ironically, Wesley Snipes made a cameo as Blade in the $1.3 billion-grossing Deadpool & Wolverine. Ryan Reynolds has championed giving Snipes' version a proper finale, tweeting: "Blade pioneered superhero cinema. Without him, there'd be no MCU or Fox Marvel films. #GiveBladeHisLogan."