The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is set to bring back the iconic vampire hunter Blade, but fans are still waiting for solid updates on this highly anticipated reboot. As of September 1, 2025, the Blade movie, starring Mahershala Ali, has faced numerous delays and challenges, leaving its release date uncertain. Originally slated for November 7, 2025, the film was removed from Disneyโs release schedule in October 2024, with no new date confirmed. Despite these setbacks, Marvel Studios remains committed to the project, and thereโs plenty to unpack about this exciting reboot. In this blog post, weโll dive into the latest details, cast updates, production struggles, and what fans can expect from the new Blade movie. Letโs explore everything you need to know about this thrilling superhero horror flick in over 5,000 words of detailed content!
The History of Blade: From Comics to the Big Screen ๐๐ฅ

Blade, the half-human, half-vampire superhero, first appeared in Marvel Comics in 1973. Created by writer Marv Wolfman and artist Gene Colan, Blade debuted as a supporting character in The Tomb of Dracula #10. His unique origin storyโborn to a mother bitten by a vampire during laborโgave him superhuman strength, agility, and immunity to vampirism, making him a relentless vampire hunter known as the “Daywalker.”
The character gained massive popularity with the 1998 Blade film, starring Wesley Snipes. This movie, followed by Blade II (2002) and Blade: Trinity (2004), became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $418 million worldwide (unadjusted for inflation). These films were groundbreaking as some of the first R-rated superhero movies, blending horror, action, and comic book flair. Snipesโ portrayal of Blade, with his leather trench coat and katana, became iconic, setting the stage for the MCUโs reboot.
In 2019, Marvel Studios announced a new Blade movie at San Diego Comic-Con, with Mahershala Ali cast as the titular character. Ali, a two-time Oscar winner (Moonlight, Green Book), even pitched the idea to Marvel himself, showing his passion for the role. However, the road to bringing Blade into the MCU has been anything but smooth. Letโs break down the key details, challenges, and what we know so far.
Blade Movie Release Date: Whatโs the Latest? ๐๏ธ
As of September 1, 2025, Blade does not have an official release date. The film was initially scheduled for November 3, 2023, but faced multiple delays due to production issues, including the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. It was later moved to September 6, 2024, then February 14, 2025, and finally November 7, 2025. However, on October 22, 2024, Disney announced that Blade was removed from its 2025 release schedule, with Predator: Badlands taking its November 7 slot.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has emphasized that the studio is committed to making the โrightโ Blade movie, prioritizing quality over rushing production. In a recent interview, Feige stated, โWeโre not going to make it until itโs right,โ suggesting that the film is still in development but not ready for release. Current estimates point to a possible 2027 or 2028 release, potentially aligning with untitled MCU slots on February 18, May 5, or November 10, 2028.
The lack of a confirmed release date has frustrated fans, with some taking to social media to express disappointment. One Reddit user commented, โBladeโs delay is historical lol,โ while another humorously noted, โSome motherfuckers still trying to ice skate uphill,โ referencing a famous line from the original Blade movie. Despite these setbacks, Marvelโs commitment to the project and Aliโs involvement keep hope alive for a stellar reboot.
Cast: Whoโs Starring in the Blade Reboot? ๐
The Blade reboot boasts an impressive cast, though it has seen some changes due to the prolonged development process. Hereโs a detailed look at the confirmed and former cast members:
Confirmed Cast
- Mahershala Ali as Eric Brooks/Blade: Ali, a celebrated actor, takes on the role of the Daywalker. He made a brief voice cameo as Blade in the post-credits scene of Eternals (2021), teasing his debut in the MCU. Aliโs passion for the character and his acting prowess make him a perfect fit, but reports suggest heโs grown frustrated with the delays.
- Mia Goth as Lilith: Known for her roles in X and Pearl, Goth is set to play the villainous demon sorcerer Lilith, a significant antagonist in the Marvel Comics universe. Her casting has generated excitement due to her ability to portray complex, intense characters.
- Milan Ray as Fallon Grey: Ray, a young actress, is cast in an undisclosed role, rumored to be Bladeโs daughter, though this plot point may have been scrapped.
- John West Jr. as DEE: West is attached to the project in a mysterious role referred to as โDEE,โ with no further details available.
Former Cast Members
- Delroy Lindo: The veteran actor (Da 5 Bloods) was initially cast in an undisclosed role but exited the project in June 2024 as it evolved.
- Aaron Pierre: Pierre (The Underground Railroad) was also attached but confirmed in March 2024 that he was no longer part of the film due to creative changes.
Rumors have circulated about other potential castings, such as Antony Starr (The Boys) as Dracula, but these remain unconfirmed. Thereโs also speculation about Kit Harington reprising his Eternals role as Dane Whitman/Black Knight, given Bladeโs voice cameo in the Eternals post-credits scene, but Harington has stated heโs not involved.
The cast changes reflect the filmโs turbulent development, but Ali and Goth remain the anchors, promising a fresh take on Bladeโs world.
Plot: What Will the Blade Reboot Be About? ๐งโโ๏ธ
Details about the Blade rebootโs plot are scarce, as the film is still in development and has undergone multiple script revisions. However, we can piece together some insights based on official statements, leaks, and the characterโs history.
Bladeโs Core Story
Blade, also known as Eric Brooks, is a half-human, half-vampire who hunts vampires to avenge his motherโs death. His mother was bitten by a vampire while pregnant, granting Blade superhuman abilities like strength, speed, and healing, but also a thirst for blood he must control. In the comics, Blade is a gritty, determined hero who wields a katana and other weapons to battle supernatural threats.
The MCU reboot is expected to stay true to this origin while integrating Blade into the broader MCU. A 2021 Eternals post-credits scene featured Bladeโs voice speaking to Dane Whitman, hinting at a connection to the Ebony Blade and possibly the Black Knight storyline.
Rumored Plot Details
Early rumors suggested the film might be a period piece set in the 1920s or 1930s, focusing on Bladeโs mother or his daughter, Fallon Grey. However, Kevin Feige confirmed in 2024 that the film will be set in modern times, scrapping the period piece idea. One report claimed the story involved Lilith, played by Mia Goth, targeting Bladeโs daughter, but this was also abandoned in favor of a contemporary adventure.
The film is likely to focus on Blade hunting vampires, with Lilith as the primary antagonist. Lilith, a demon sorcerer in Marvel Comics, is a formidable foe who could introduce darker, supernatural elements to the MCU. The movie may also explore Bladeโs role in the potential formation of the Midnight Sons, a team of supernatural heroes including Moon Knight, Ghost Rider, and Werewolf by Night.
Tone and Rating
The original Blade trilogy was R-rated, known for its gritty violence and horror elements. Fans are eager to see if the MCU version will follow suit or opt for a PG-13 rating to align with most Marvel films. While no official rating has been confirmed, Kevin Feige has hinted that the studio wants to honor the characterโs roots, suggesting a darker tone. Mia Gothโs casting and her history with intense roles further support the idea of a horror-leaning superhero film.
Production Challenges: Why Is Blade Taking So Long? ๐
The Blade reboot has faced a rocky road since its 2019 announcement. Hereโs a detailed look at the challenges that have delayed the project:
Director Changes
- Bassam Tariq: Initially hired in 2021, Tariq (Mogul Mowgli) left in September 2022 due to โcontinued shifts in our production scheduleโ and creative differences.
- Yann Demange: Demange (Lovecraft Country) joined in November 2022 but exited in June 2024, with the parting described as โamicable.โ As of now, the film has no director, which has stalled progress.
Writer Changes
The script has gone through at least six writers, reflecting Marvelโs struggle to find the right story:
- Stacy Osei-Kuffour (Watchmen): Hired in 2021 as the first Black female writer for a Marvel film.
- Beau DeMayo: Briefly attached in 2022 for rewrites but later accused Marvel of โegregious prejudicial misconductโ after his removal.
- Michael Starrbury (When They See Us): Reworked the script in 2022.
- Nic Pizzolatto (True Detective): Hired in 2023 for additional rewrites.
- Michael Green: Reportedly rewrote the script from scratch in 2023, with some versions making Blade a secondary character, which frustrated Ali.
- Eric Pearson: Joined in June 2024 to refine the script, having worked on Thunderbolts and The Fantastic Four.
Industry Strikes
The 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes halted production on many films, including Blade. The writersโ strike began in May 2023, and the actorsโ strike followed in July, delaying filming that was initially planned for late 2022.
Creative Overhauls
Marvel has struggled to define the filmโs direction. Early versions reportedly focused on a female-led narrative or life lessons, relegating Blade to a supporting role, which didnโt sit well with Ali or fans. Kevin Feigeโs insistence on a modern setting and a โgreat scriptโ has led to multiple rewrites, as Marvel aims to balance Bladeโs gritty roots with the MCUโs interconnected style.
Mahershala Aliโs Frustration
Reports suggest Ali, now 50, has grown frustrated with the delays and script issues. Some sources claim he was close to exiting the project in 2023 due to dissatisfaction with the direction. However, Marvelโs recent claim that theyโve โcrackedโ the story has kept Ali on board, though fans worry he may leave if delays continue.
These challenges have made Blade one of the MCUโs most troubled projects, but Marvelโs commitment to quality and Aliโs dedication suggest the film could still deliver.
Reviews: What Are People Saying About Blade? ๐ฃ๏ธ
Since Blade has not yet entered production or released any footage, there are no official reviews. However, fan reactions, industry buzz, and comments from those involved provide insight into the anticipation and concerns surrounding the film.
Fan Reactions
On platforms like Reddit and X, fans have expressed a mix of excitement and frustration:
- Excitement for Mahershala Ali: Fans are thrilled about Aliโs casting, with many believing heโll bring depth and intensity to Blade. โMahershala Ali as Blade is perfect casting. I just hope Marvel gets it together,โ one Reddit user wrote.
- Frustration with Delays: The indefinite delay has led to disappointment, with comments like, โIโve already lost all interest I had in the movie,โ and โBladeโs delay is historical lol.โ
- Nostalgia for Wesley Snipes: Snipesโ cameo as Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), which grossed $1.3 billion, reignited love for the original trilogy. Snipes himself poked fun at the rebootโs struggles, tweeting, โBlade, lordylordylordy, folks still lookin for the secret sauce, ridin snowmobiles in traffic, kinda rough.โ
Industry Buzz
Industry insiders have mixed sentiments:
- Kevin Feigeโs Optimism: Feige has repeatedly affirmed Marvelโs commitment, stating, โWe love the character, we love Mahershalaโs version of him.โ He emphasized that the studio is working to ensure the film lives up to the original trilogyโs legacy.
- David Goyerโs Update: David Goyer, writer of the original Blade trilogy, revealed in June 2025 that Marvel told him theyโve โcrackedโ the story, suggesting progress behind the scenes.
- Concerns About Development: Reports from Variety and The Hollywood Reporter highlight the chaotic development, with Aliโs lawyer calling it โthe craziest thing in my professional experience.โ
While there are no reviews yet, the buzz indicates high expectations tempered by skepticism due to the production woes. Fans hope the final product will justify the wait.
What to Expect from the Blade Reboot ๐ฌ
Despite the challenges, the Blade reboot has the potential to be a game-changer for the MCU. Hereโs what fans can look forward to:
A Darker MCU Entry
Bladeโs horror roots and R-rated origins suggest the film could push the MCU into darker territory, similar to Deadpool & Wolverine or Werewolf by Night. Mia Gothโs casting as Lilith points to a creepy, intense villain, and the modern setting could explore urban vampire lore.
Integration with the MCU
The Eternals post-credits scene hints at connections to the Black Knight and possibly the Ebony Blade, a mystical weapon in Marvel Comics. Blade could also set up the Midnight Sons, a supernatural team that fits with Marvelโs recent focus on darker characters like Moon Knight and Agatha Harkness.
High-Profile Talent
Mahershala Aliโs involvement ensures a compelling performance, while Mia Gothโs rising star power adds intrigue. The involvement of writers like Eric Pearson, who has worked on major MCU projects, suggests Marvel is aiming for a polished script.
Potential for Innovation
The delays indicate Marvelโs desire to innovate rather than replicate the original trilogy. By setting the film in the present and focusing on Bladeโs core mission, the reboot could offer a fresh take while honoring the characterโs legacy.
Comparison: Original Blade Trilogy vs. MCU Reboot โ๏ธ
To understand what the reboot might offer, letโs compare it to the original Blade trilogy:
Aspect | Original Blade Trilogy (1998-2004) | MCU Blade Reboot (TBA) |
---|---|---|
Lead Actor | Wesley Snipes | Mahershala Ali |
Release Dates | 1998, 2002, 2004 | TBD (Estimated 2027-2028) |
Directors | Stephen Norrington, Guillermo del Toro, David S. Goyer | None currently (previously Bassam Tariq, Yann Demange) |
Rating | R-rated | TBD (likely R or PG-13) |
Box Office | $418.1 million worldwide (unadjusted) | N/A |
Plot Focus | Blade hunts vampires, battles La Magra, Reapers, and Dracula | Blade vs. Lilith, modern setting, possible Midnight Sons setup |
Tone | Gritty, horror-heavy, action-packed | Dark, horror-leaning, MCU-integrated |
Key Villains | Deacon Frost, Nomak, Dracula | Lilith (Mia Goth) |
Production Studio | New Line Cinema | Marvel Studios |
The reboot aims to balance the originalโs gritty tone with the MCUโs interconnected storytelling, potentially introducing new characters and supernatural elements.
10 FAQs About the Blade Movie Reboot โ
- When is the Blade movie coming out?
As of September 1, 2025, Blade has no official release date. It was removed from the November 7, 2025, slot, with estimates pointing to 2027 or 2028. - Who is playing Blade in the MCU reboot?
Mahershala Ali stars as Eric Brooks/Blade, taking over from Wesley Snipes. - Will Wesley Snipes appear in the new Blade movie?
Thereโs no confirmation of Snipes appearing, though he made a cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024). - Who is the villain in the Blade reboot?
Mia Goth is set to play Lilith, a demon sorcerer from Marvel Comics. - Why has the Blade movie been delayed so many times?
The film has faced director changes, multiple script rewrites, and delays due to the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. - Will the Blade reboot be R-rated?
The rating is unconfirmed, but fans hope for an R-rated film to match the original trilogyโs tone. - Is the Blade movie part of the MCUโs Phase 6?
Yes, after delays, Blade is now part of Phase 6, following The Fantastic Four: First Steps. - Will the Black Knight appear in the Blade movie?
Kit Haringtonโs Dane Whitman was teased in Eternals, but heโs confirmed not to be in Blade. - What is the plot of the new Blade movie?
The plot is undisclosed, but it will be set in modern times with Blade battling Lilith. - Is Marvel still committed to the Blade reboot?
Yes, Kevin Feige has stated Marvel is dedicated to making the โrightโ Blade movie, with Ali still attached.
Conclusion: The Future of Blade in the MCU ๐
The Blade reboot is one of the MCUโs most anticipated yet troubled projects. Despite losing its November 7, 2025, release date and facing director changes, script rewrites, and cast exits, Marvel Studios remains committed to delivering a high-quality film. Mahershala Aliโs casting, Mia Gothโs villainous role, and the potential for a darker, horror-infused MCU entry keep fans hopeful. While the wait may extend to 2027 or beyond, the promise of Blade joining the MCUโpossibly alongside the Midnight Sonsโmakes it worth the anticipation.
Marvelโs focus on getting the story right, as evidenced by Feigeโs comments and Goyerโs recent update, suggests that Blade could be a standout addition to the MCU. For now, fans can rewatch the original trilogy, enjoy Snipesโ cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine, and keep an eye out for updates. The Daywalkerโs return is coming, and when it does, itโs sure to be a bloody good time! ๐งโโ๏ธ
Disclaimer โ ๏ธ
The information in this blog post is based on the latest available data as of September 1, 2025, from credible sources like Marvel Studios, industry reports, and fan discussions. However, movie production details, especially for a project as fluid as Blade, can change rapidly. Release dates, cast members, and plot details may evolve as Marvel continues development. Always check official Marvel announcements for the most up-to-date information. This post is for informational purposes and reflects the authorโs interpretation of available data, not official statements from Marvel Studios.
Contents
- 1 The History of Blade: From Comics to the Big Screen ๐๐ฅ
- 2 Blade Movie Release Date: Whatโs the Latest? ๐๏ธ
- 3 Cast: Whoโs Starring in the Blade Reboot? ๐
- 4 Plot: What Will the Blade Reboot Be About? ๐งโโ๏ธ
- 5 Production Challenges: Why Is Blade Taking So Long? ๐
- 6 Reviews: What Are People Saying About Blade? ๐ฃ๏ธ
- 7 What to Expect from the Blade Reboot ๐ฌ
- 8 Comparison: Original Blade Trilogy vs. MCU Reboot โ๏ธ
- 9 10 FAQs About the Blade Movie Reboot โ
- 10 Conclusion: The Future of Blade in the MCU ๐
- 11 Disclaimer โ ๏ธ