Mahershala Ali's highly anticipated portrayal of Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) seems to be facing yet another setback. Announced back in 2019, Ali's Blade has been a long time coming, with the actor making only a vocal appearance in "Eternals." The film has encountered numerous hurdles, including directorial changes and delays. The original director, Bassam Tariq, left the project in 2022, followed by Yann Demange in June, leaving the movie without a helmsman.
As reported by Deadline, Marvel Studios has indefinitely postponed the release of "Blade," removing it from its November 7, 2025, slot. In its place, "Predator: Hunting Grounds" will now premiere. Additionally, Marvel has penciled in three dates for untitled MCU films on February 18, May 5, and November 10, 2028. With "Blade" already facing multiple delays and no director in sight, it was becoming increasingly unlikely that the film would meet its scheduled release date. This confirmation from Marvel suggests that "Blade" may lose cast members and face further complications.
Implications of "Blade's" Removal from the Release Schedule
The Prolonged Wait for Blade's MCU Debut
The delay of "Blade" is not unexpected, considering the MCU's packed 2025 release schedule. While "Captain America: New World Order" and "Thunderbolts" have completed filming, and "Fantastic Four: First Steps" is in production, "Blade" remains without a director and an uncertain start date. The film has already suffered multiple delays, lost key cast members, and faced reports of Ali's dissatisfaction with the script and production process.
It's a strategic move for Marvel to delay "Blade" to ensure the best possible final product. However, with Ali turning 50, time is not on his side, which could lead to Marvel considering a recasting for the role. There are two potential release dates for untitled MCU films in 2026: February 13 and November 6. "Blade" could be pushed back by a year to occupy the November slot. Yet, Marvel might have other films lined up for those dates, such as "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness," and since "Blade" is not a pivotal part of the Multiverse Saga, further delays are possible.
Our Perspective on Marvel's Decision to Remove "Blade" from the Schedule
The Future Looks Uncertain for Mahershala Ali
It's my belief that if Marvel intended to reschedule "Blade" for any of the 2026 slots, an announcement would have been made by now. Instead, it appears more probable that the film will be held until after the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga on May 7, 2027, with "Avengers: Secret Wars." At 50 and having waited since 2019 to star in "Blade," Ali may become impatient and leave the project. Nevertheless, the character could make its debut post-Multiverse Saga, making the indefinite delay of "Blade" not entirely surprising.
