Mahershala Ali Still Ready for Blade as Marvel Struggles to Get Reboot on Track

It’s been nearly six years since Marvel Studios surprised fans by announcing Mahershala Ali as the new Blade during their 2019 San Diego Comic-Con presentation. With Kevin Feige at the helm, the announcement promised a reboot of the vampire slayer character that Wesley Snipes originally brought to life.

This move generated huge excitement, especially with Ali being a two-time Academy Award winner. However, since that announcement, the project has been plagued with delays, leadership changes, and shifting release dates.

Amid Delays and Departures, Mahershala Ali Remains Committed to Marvel’s Blade Revival

Despite the fanfare surrounding its reveal, “Blade” has encountered significant development troubles. The movie has cycled through multiple directors and lost several key cast members. Originally slated for a 2023 release, the date was pushed back multiple times until Disney eventually removed it from the release calendar entirely in October 2024. The chaotic development journey has led many to question whether the film will ever come to fruition.

Amidst the uncertainty, Mahershala Ali has remained firmly committed to the role. Speaking at the New York premiere of “Jurassic World Rebirth,” Ali expressed his eagerness to begin filming. When asked about the project, he simply said, “Call Marvel… I’m ready. Let them know I’m ready.” His consistent enthusiasm has been one of the few constants in a project riddled with instability, giving fans a glimmer of hope that the film might eventually move forward.

Creative Turmoil and Studio Optimism Keep Blade’s Future Hanging in Uncertain Balance

The production has faced numerous setbacks, including the departure of director Bassam Tariq in late 2022 and, more recently, director Yann Demange. Prominent actors Aaron Pierre and Delroy Lindo, who were expected to appear alongside Ali, have also exited the project. Delroy Lindo shared in April that although the initial concept was exciting, the project ultimately “went off the rails.” These losses have made it increasingly difficult for the film to maintain momentum and direction.

Despite the turbulence, Marvel Studios remains publicly optimistic. Kevin Feige reaffirmed their commitment to the film during a Disney event in Brazil, stating they still support Ali’s take on the character and want to deliver the right vision.

Ali echoed this sentiment in December 2023, sharing that he was “really encouraged with the direction” and expected to return to the project soon. With Marvel continuing to keep the door open and Ali’s passion undiminished, there’s still hope that “Blade” will one day rise again in the MCU.