One of the most highly-anticipated Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, Blade, was announced as far back as 2019. The long-awaited reboot of the fan-favorite vampire hunter, previously played by Wesley Snipes, was set to happen with Mahershala Ali as the lead. Unfortunately, the film has been plagued by production troubles in the time since then, and now Mahershala Ali’s own attorney has commented on the status of Blade.
Fans were shocked to learn that the film’s most recent director, Yann Demange, reportedly left the project. He’s the “most recent” because the first director, Bassam Tariq, also left the project. It’s currently unknown who will be attached to direct Blade for Marvel Studios next, but attorney Shelby Weiser is surprised at how things have failed to work out so far.
After all, Mahershala Ali signed a deal with Marvel Studios in 2019. This deal was five years ago now, and without any positive progress regarding the film, it’s an understandably difficult situation. In fact, the reboot was previously scheduled to be released several times over the years, with various production delays stemming from issues with directors, screenwriters, and 2023’s WGA strikes.
Now, as shared in a piece THR did titled “Power Lawyers 2024: Meet Hollywood’s Top 100 Attorneys,” Ali’s attorney commented on the matter. Here’s what they shared about how the situation is baffling even to them:
“That deal was in 2019, and they still haven’t shot it, which is pretty much the craziest thing in my professional experience,” Weiser said.
Blade is currently scheduled for November 7, 2025, though another delay is very possible. Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding the development of Blade and how Marvel Studios plans to approach the film now that Demange has left the production. Mahershala Ali is certainly a great choice to follow in the footsteps of Wesley Snipes, so hopefully things work out sooner rather than later.