Following several setbacks, the Mahershala Ali Blade movie status continues to be uncertain, making it the only major Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 5 project yet to debut. Despite being first announced years ago, the film remains unreleased, drawing interest from fans and industry watchers eager to see the Oscar-winning actor take on the iconic role.
Longstanding Delays Keep Blade on Hold
More than six years have passed since Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, revealed at San Diego Comic-Con that Mahershala Ali would portray Blade in the MCU. Since then, however, the film’s development has been beset by repeated creative delays. Ali is still expected to play the anti-hero, and he previously lent his voice for a cameo at the end of 2021’s Eternals. Although his full-fledged debut as the Daywalker has not taken place, the character did appear in Deadpool & Wolverine, portrayed by Wesley Snipes in a return to his well-known role.
The production currently lacks both an official director and a confirmed release date. Directors Bassam Tariq and Yann Demange were previously involved at various points, as were writers Stacy Osei-Kuffour, Beau DeMayo, Michael Starrbury, Michael Green, and Eric Pearson. The frequent changes and delays have led to uncertainty about the cast, with no confirmation yet on whether Mia Goth or Milan Ray will stay on board after the departures of Aaron Pierre and Delroy Lindo were confirmed.
Marvel’s Supernatural Future and the Impact on Blade
In addition to Blade, Marvel Studios is reportedly exploring a Midnight Sons movie, expanding its supernatural slate. Rumors suggest that the studio may position Ghost Rider as the leader of this team, inspired by the 1993 Marvel Comics series co-created by Howard Mackie, Andy Kubert, and Bobby Chase. The original comic centered on characters such as Ghost Rider, Blade, Moon Knight, Elsa Bloodstone, and Doctor Strange, with the lineup drawing excitement for the potential on-screen adaptation.
As Marvel concludes Phase 5 with recent series like Ironheart, anticipation remains for the official debut of Mahershala Ali as Blade. The repeated changes in directors and writers, along with cast uncertainties, highlight ongoing challenges for the project. Fans and the MCU community now await updates on whether the Daywalker’s introduction will signal a new era of supernatural stories within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Originally reported by Maggie Dela Paz on SuperHeroHype.
