Mahershala Ali is Still Eager to Don the Daywalker Mantle in Marvel’s ‘Blade’
It’s been nearly six years since two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali surprised fans at San Diego Comic-Con, stepping onto the Hall H stage as Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige announced he would portray the new Blade for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Intended as a reboot of the character famously played by Wesley Snipes, the announcement generated significant excitement. Yet, since that summer day in 2019, the path to bringing the Daywalker back to the big screen has been anything but smooth, fraught with numerous delays and creative hurdles.
Despite the project’s turbulent journey through development hell, Ali remains steadfast in his commitment and readiness. At the New York premiere of his new film “Jurassic World Rebirth,” the actor offered a direct, emphatic message when asked about the status of “Blade” production:
“Call Marvel,” Ali stated. “Let them know I’m ready.”
A Protracted Development
The difficulties facing the “Blade” reboot are well-documented. Originally slated for release on November 3, 2023, the film’s date was repeatedly pushed back, eventually landing on November 7, 2025, before being removed from Disney’s calendar altogether in October 2023. This stands in stark contrast to other projects announced alongside “Blade” in 2019, such as “WandaVision,” “Loki,” “Eternals,” and “Shang-Chi,” all of which have long since been produced and released.
The project has cycled through multiple directors. Bassam Tariq was initially attached but exited in September 2022, just weeks before a planned production start. Yann Demange later took over directorial duties but has also since departed the film. Furthermore, actors Aaron Pierre and Delroy Lindo, who were reportedly cast alongside Ali, have publicly stated they are no longer involved. Lindo commented in April 2024 that while the concept was exciting, the project “just went off the rails.”
Even David S. Goyer, who penned the original successful “Blade” trilogy starring Wesley Snipes, has expressed bewilderment at the difficulties Marvel has encountered, calling it “baffling” for what he views as a “relatively simple story” centered on “insane ass kicking” and horror. Reports suggest the film was close to production in 2023 before strikes hit, but it remained dormant afterward.
Marvel’s Commitment and Ali’s Eagerness
Despite the setbacks, Marvel Studios maintains its dedication to the character and Ali’s portrayal. Kevin Feige reiterated the studio’s commitment in November 2023, stating they “love the character” and Mahershala Ali’s take, assuring fans that Blade “will indeed make it to the MCU.”
While Ali’s recent “I’m ready” comment signals his enduring enthusiasm and availability, other interviews suggest he might also be waiting on direction from the studio, admitting, “I don’t know where Marvel is at right now.” His only appearance as Blade in the MCU thus far remains a brief voice-only cameo in the post-credits scene of 2021’s Eternals.
The ongoing saga of the “Blade” movie highlights the complex challenges of bringing even highly anticipated characters to the screen within a vast cinematic universe. As fans await concrete updates and a new target date, Mahershala Ali’s public declaration serves as a clear signal: the Daywalker is ready when Marvel calls.
References
- variety.com
- nordic.ign.com
- <a href="https://www.imdb.com/de/news/ni65348571/?ref=ttnwr_1″>www.imdb.com
- www.joblo.com
- www.superherohype.com
