MCU's Blade in Limbo as Ali Awaits Marvel's Move

Mahershala Ali has shared several disappointing updates about Marvel's long-delayed Blade movie while promoting his new film, Jurassic World Rebirth.

Blade was first announced at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019 with an original planned release date of November 2024. However, after multiple director changes and production setbacks, Mahershala Ali's Blade portrayal remains unrealized six years later.

The project reached another setback eight months ago when Marvel removed Blade from its release schedule without announcing a replacement date. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige later confirmed continued commitment to the project during an interview with Omelete in November 2024.

"We are committed to Blade. We love the character, we love Mahershala's take on him. When we adjust plans or finalize scheduling, we communicate openly with fans," Feige stated. "While I can't share specifics, I can confirm Blade will eventually join the MCU."

When asked by Variety for updates, Ali offered disappointing words for eager fans: "Contact Marvel," the Oscar-winner said. "I'm prepared. Make sure they know I'm ready."

The Hollywood Reporter received similarly discouraging comments when pressing Ali for details:

"I'd love Blade to happen eventually, but I'm uncertain about Marvel's current plans," Ali admitted. "Right now, I'm simply focusing on finding my next great role."

Other creatives attached to Blade have confirmed the project's collapse. In April, musician Flying Lotus revealed on X/Twitter his involvement ended when Marvel shelved production.

"I was hired to score Blade before everything fell apart," the artist shared. "Though unlikely, I'd welcome another chance if Marvel revives it."

Scheduled costume designer Ruth E. Carter disclosed on The John Campea Show that her work on the 1920s-set vampire hunter film was halted alongside production.

Co-star Delroy Lindo told Entertainment Weekly about his frustrating experience:

"Marvel initially valued my creative input during conversations with writers and directors," Lindo recalled. "The concept showed tremendous promise before inexplicably collapsing."

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The Blade situation contrasts sharply with Marvel's recent success. Deadpool & Wolverine, featuring Wesley Snipes' Blade cameo, earned $1.3 billion globally. Ryan Reynolds advocated for Snipes' Blade to receive a proper farewell film similar to Logan, acknowledging Blade's pivotal role in launching superhero cinema.

"Modern superhero films owe their existence to Blade," Reynolds tweeted. "As Marvel's trailblazer, Wesley Snipes deserves a worthy conclusion like Hugh Jackman received."