The much-anticipated Blade movie, starring Mahershala Ali, has faced multiple delays, leaving fans uncertain about its debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. What started in 2013 as an exciting development has transformed into a prolonged saga, with various scriptwriters attempting to revive the project. The decision to recast the iconic character, originally played by Wesley Snipes, with Mahershala Ali brought renewed hope, yet progress has stalled over the years.
Initially announced in 2019, the reboot featuring Mahershala Ali was expected to breathe new life into the franchise. A release date was eventually set for November 7, 2025, but this optimism dwindled when Disney removed it from their calendar in October. This delay only intensified fan frustration as the project remained trapped in what many now dub “development hell.”
Former Marvel writer Beau DeMayo, who was involved in the movie’s screenplay, ignited further controversy with his recent revelations on Twitter. Despite being dismissed from Marvel’s animated series X-Men ‘97, DeMayo revisited his experiences with Disney and Marvel, shedding light on their plans for Blade. He recalled contentious efforts to introduce a “white apologist savior” sidekick in the form of Dane Whitman’s grandfather, which he and Mahershala Ali found troubling.
DeMayo also highlighted the racial insensitivity he encountered during his time with the project. As reported by Variety, a Marvel executive allegedly joked about DeMayo being an ideal choice for writer because he resembled a young Wesley Snipes. He further confronted the offensive remark of needing someone to “crack the whip” within the production office, hinting at undertones of slavery. DeMayo’s attempt to address these issues led to his termination.
Amidst the drama, Kevin Feige reassured fans that the Blade movie remains on Marvel’s agenda. In a November interview with Omelete, Feige expressed his commitment to bringing the project to fruition, emphasizing the studio’s appreciation for Ali’s interpretation of Blade. He noted, “Whenever we change direction with a project, or are still figuring out how it fits into our schedule, we let the audience know.”
The future of Mahershala Ali’s Blade is still uncertain, but fans hold on to the hope that a new adaptation will eventually hit the screens. As long as controversies like Beau DeMayo’s revelations continue to surface, Marvel might find itself navigating more than cinematic challenges. The mounting pressure to release a successful film grows ever more important, potentially influencing their marketing approach and production strategies. With the MCU’s stronghold and Mahershala Ali eagerly awaiting his turn as Blade, only time will tell how this ongoing narrative unfolds.
