Mahershala Ali, who was officially announced as the new Blade back in 2019, still isn’t sure what’s happening with the long-awaited Marvel reboot.
The two-time Oscar winner has spoken out about the film’s uncertain status, saying he’s ready to get started, but Marvel seems to be stuck in neutral.
In a recent chat with The Hollywood Reporter, Ali admitted he’s in the dark when it comes to the project. “I’m just taking it a day at a time. I’m doing the best work I can,” he said. While Ali scratched his action itch in his upcoming film Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother, directed by ex-Blade helmer Bassam Tariq, he hasn’t given up hope on finally donning the black trench coat and katana.
“I would love for Blade to happen; we’ll see. I don’t know where Marvel is at right now. I’m just looking for the next great part, I really am,” Ali said. When pressed further by Variety, he simply responded, “Call Marvel. I’m ready. Let them know I’m ready.”
The Blade reboot has had a rocky ride so far. Originally set for release in November 2025, it was pulled from Disney’s calendar last October. Instead, Predator: Badlands took its slot, and now Blade has no confirmed release date.
The project has cycled through multiple writers and directors. Bassam Tariq exited the film due to creative differences, followed by director Yann Demange. Writers have also changed several times, with the script currently being handled by Thor: Ragnarok writer Eric Pearson and True Detective creator Nic Pizzolatto.
Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige has acknowledged the setbacks, saying the studio is taking its time to “crack” the film. “The most important thing for us is not rushing it and making sure we are making the right Blade movie,” Feige told BlackTree TV. He confirmed the film will keep its R-rating, much like Deadpool, staying true to the darker tone fans expect.
Mia Goth, who’s been cast as the villain Lilith, echoed Feige’s sentiment. Speaking to Deadline, she said, “They really care, they do. They want to make a great movie. That’s the sense that I get from them and that feels good.”
Although no director is officially attached, John Wick mastermind Chad Stahelski is reportedly in talks to take the reins. That hasn’t been confirmed yet, but fans are hopeful a skilled action director could finally get the film off the ground.
Right now, all eyes are on Marvel for updates. Meanwhile, Mahershala Ali remains ready and waiting to become the Daywalker.
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