Is Mahershala Ali Still Interested in Playing Blade?
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Synopsis
Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali remains enthusiastic about his role as Blade, despite numerous delays and challenges in the film's production. As Marvel Studios continues to grapple with the project, Ali's eagerness to begin filming shines through. Discover the latest updates and insights about this highly anticipated reboot.
Key Takeaways
- Mahershala Ali is enthusiastic about his role as Blade.
- The film has experienced many delays and challenges.
- Ali has openly expressed his readiness to start filming.
- Marvel Studios remains committed to the project.
- The film has been removed from Disney's release schedule.
Los Angeles, June 24 (NationPress) Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali made an appearance at Marvel Studios' Hall H presentation during San Diego Comic-Con, where producer Kevin Feige revealed that Ali would portray the vampire hunter Blade.
However, this announcement dates back six years. The film aimed to reboot the character, initially brought to life by Wesley Snipes, and integrate him into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as reported by Variety.
Since then, the project has faced numerous challenges, including a change of directors, cast alterations, and multiple delays. Despite these setbacks, Ali expressed his enthusiasm for beginning production on Blade.
"Call Marvel," Ali stated at the New York premiere of his latest film, Jurassic World Rebirth. When asked about the potential start date for Blade, he kept his response succinct.
He mentioned to Variety, "I’m ready. Let them know I’m ready." Marvel Studios first unveiled Blade in 2019, alongside other projects such as the Disney Plus series WandaVision, Loki, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, as well as movies like Eternals, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. However, while many of those projects have been completed and released, Blade remains in limbo.
According to Variety, last October, Disney completely removed Blade from its release schedule, eliminating a November 7, 2025 release date that followed several previous delays. The film's original release date was November 3, 2023.
The project initially saw filmmaker Bassam Tariq sign on to direct, but he exited in September 2022, about two months before filming was set to commence. Since then, director Yann Demanger has also been involved before stepping away. Actors Aaron Pierre and Delroy Lindo were reportedly slated to star alongside Ali, but both have since confirmed their departure from the project.
"It was truly an exciting concept on paper, but it was also thrilling regarding the character that was going to develop. For whatever reason, it just went off the rails," Lindo shared with Entertainment Weekly about the project in April.
Back in November, Feige reassured fans that Marvel Studios was still committed to Blade.
Point of View
The ongoing saga surrounding Mahershala Ali's Blade highlights the complexities of modern film production and the pressures faced by major studios. Despite the challenges, Ali's commitment signals a potential resurgence for this beloved character, keeping fans hopeful for a resolution.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the Blade movie?
The Blade movie has faced multiple delays and has been removed from Disney's release schedule, but Mahershala Ali remains eager to start filming.
Who is directing Blade?
The project has seen several directors come and go, including Bassam Tariq and Yann Demanger, but no current director has been confirmed.
When was Blade originally scheduled to be released?
Blade was initially set for release on November 3, 2023, but has since been removed from the release calendar.
What character does Mahershala Ali play?
Mahershala Ali is set to portray Blade, a vampire hunter originally brought to life on-screen by Wesley Snipes.
Is Marvel Studios still committed to Blade?
Yes, Marvel Studios has reiterated its commitment to the Blade project, despite the challenges it faces.
