Kevin Feige has provided an important update on Mahershala Ali’s Blade reboot, revealing that Marvel Studios aims to present a fresh take on the vampire hunter, distinct from Wesley Snipes’ iconic portrayal. The MCU’s Blade is set to explore a different approach to the character, moving beyond the typical leather-clad vampire killer.
Kevin Feige Describes a New Vision for Mahershala Ali’s Blade
During a recent press event for Marvel’s upcoming film The Fantastic Four, producer Kevin Feige addressed the ongoing development of the Blade reboot. He highlighted how Marvel is avoiding simply recreating the style and tone of the earlier Blade trilogy starring Wesley Snipes. Feige emphasized that Mahershala Ali’s version will be crafted with more depth, steering clear of making the character just a “leather suit” vampire slayer.
We didn’t want to put a leather outfit on [Ali] and have him start killing vampires.
—Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios President
Feige’s remarks suggest a deliberate effort to redefine Blade’s role within the MCU, moving away from the action-heavy, straightforward vampire hunter archetype. Instead, Marvel is aiming for a more nuanced character development that aligns with the studio’s evolving storytelling goals for the franchise.
Challenges in Development and the Focus on Present-Day Storytelling
The reboot has experienced considerable delays and creative hurdles since its initial announcement at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019. Two directors, Bassam Tariq and Yann Demange, departed the project, contributing to uncertainty around its progress. Despite these challenges, Feige confirmed that the Blade film remains in active development.
In discussing the script’s evolution, Feige revealed that multiple versions were considered, including treatments set both in the past and in the present day. Ultimately, Marvel decided to pursue a story set in current times, reflecting their preference to ground the Daywalker within the MCU’s contemporary narrative framework.
We didn’t feel confident we could do that on Blade. We didn’t want to do that to Mahershala and didn’t want to do that to us.
—Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios President
This comment highlights Marvel’s cautious approach to ensure the reboot meets high creative standards and respects the actor involved, avoiding a rushed or superficial portrayal. Eric Pearson, a writer recently involved with Marvel’s Thunderbolts and The Fantastic Four, is reported to be crafting the screenplay, reinforcing the studio’s commitment to a thoughtful development process.
Implications of Feige’s Statements for the Future of the Blade Reboot
Feige’s update confirms that the Blade reboot starring Mahershala Ali has not been abandoned despite setbacks and the absence of a final director. While the film was removed from the MCU’s official release schedule for 2024, Feige’s remarks suggest that Marvel is still invested in bringing the new Blade to the screen.
This cautious optimism signals potential for the character to emerge with a richer identity within the MCU, reflecting the studio’s intention to expand Blade’s role beyond being just an action hero. Fans may expect a more complex and layered narrative that explores the character’s dynamics and place in the broader Marvel universe.
Given the project’s existence in development limbo for several years, Feige’s direct acknowledgment provides some reassurance that Marvel has not lost sight of the reboot, preserving the possibility of Mahershala Ali’s iteration joining the MCU’s expanding roster.
As the studio refines the story and casting, the Blade reboot is poised to redefine what the Daywalker means for new audiences, potentially reshaping the vampire hunter mythos in a modern context.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kevin Feige leaving Marvel?
A. There are no verified reports indicating that Feige is leaving Marvel Studios. The rumors don’t seem true.
Speculation about his exit began when an account called MCU Source on X (formerly Twitter) posted “breaking” news about changes in Marvel Studios’ leadership following the Multiverse Saga.
