Mahershala Ali playfully declined to address questions about the status of the MCU’s long-anticipated Blade reboot during a recent Vogue interview with his Jurassic World Rebirth co-stars Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey. Though the film was announced years ago, Ali kept a lighthearted distance from the topic, emphasizing his desire to stay out of the conversation despite expressing hope the movie will eventually be made.
Blade Reboot Faces Uncertainty Despite Ongoing Interest
The Blade reboot, announced over six years ago, has yet to make tangible progress, lacking a director and currently removed from Marvel’s official release schedule set for October 2024. Following the project’s delay, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige reaffirmed the studio’s commitment to the character and to Ali’s portrayal, assuring fans that updates are shared when plans shift. Feige emphasized that Blade will ultimately arrive in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, despite the current lack of clarity.
Production Challenges and Cast Changes Add to Delay Concerns
Complicating matters, Delroy Lindo, who was initially cast in the Blade reboot, revealed that the project had gone “off the rails,” indicating behind-the-scenes difficulties. Ali echoed this uncertainty by admitting he is unsure of Marvel’s current direction with the film. During the Vogue interview, when Jonathan Bailey attempted to engage Ali in revealing details about a Marvel film they were excited about, Ali responded with humor, steering the conversation away from specifics.
Looking Ahead: What Blade’s Future Might Hold
Despite the ambiguity surrounding Blade’s production timeline, Ali expressed enthusiasm for the character’s eventual MCU arrival, stating,
“I would love for Blade to happen.”
With Marvel maintaining its dedication but remaining silent on scheduling, fans are left anticipating more definitive news. Meanwhile, Ali’s involvement in Jurassic World Rebirth continues to highlight his rising profile in Hollywood.
As the MCU evolves, the status of the Blade reboot remains a topic of speculation, underscoring the complexities of major franchise filmmaking. The film’s delay reflects broader challenges in coordinating extensive cinematic universes while meeting audience expectations.
“Can you name every Marvel Cinematic Universe film Scarlett and Mahershala have been in?”
—Jonathan Bailey
Leave me out of it, Ali laughed. It’s a Scarlett question.
—Mahershala Ali
“There’s one that we’re very excited about,”
—Jonathan Bailey
“We are committed to Blade. We love the character, we love Mahershala’s take on him. And rest assured: whenever we change direction with a project, or are still figuring out how it fits into our schedule, we let the audience know. You’re all up to date on what’s happening,”
—Kevin Feige
“But I can tell you that the character will indeed make it to the MCU.”
—Kevin Feige
Doesn’t know where Marvel is at right now.
—Mahershala Ali
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Mahershala Ali quit?
A. Mahershala Ali is still part of the MCU’s Blade movie.
