Mahershala Ali has addressed Blade‘s status. The actor has made one appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far, which came from an uncredited voice cameo in Eternals‘ post-credits scene. Ali’s version of Blade has still to appear onscreen, and with the MCU’s Blade movie removed from the franchise’s schedule, many believe that it will never happen. In December 2023, Ali last spoke about the film’s status and seemed to be hopeful about the direction the project was taking. However, that was before Blade‘s removal from the MCU’s slate of projects, and his new update is not encouraging.

Speaking with Variety at Jurᴀssic World Rebirth’s premiere, Mahershala Ali claimed he is ready to play Blade, but it is not up to him. The actor said, “Call Marvel. I’m ready. Let them know I’m ready.” Ali was the one responsible for Blade happening in the first place, as he reached out to Marvel about his interest in playing the Daywalker. Based on his comments, the actor remains committed to the role despite the project’s many delays. However, the final word on Blade moving forward has to come from Marvel.

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On Twitter, The Hollywood Reporter also asked Mahershala Ali about the Blade movie’s status. Ali said, “I’m just taking it a day at a time… I would love for Blade to happen. We’ll see. I don’t know where Marvel is at right now.” The actor’s body language while answering the question has also become a talking point for MCU fans, with many believing that might be it for the film.

What Mahershala Ali’s Comments Mean For The MCU’s Blade Movie

The Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie’s Chances Are Not Looking Good

Ali’s new Blade updates are not encouraging for those who want to see him finally debut as the character in the MCU. Based on his words, it seems like the film is still stuck in development at Marvel. While the actor’s comments show that he would still love to play Blade if the MCU figured out how to make it happen, Ali talking about how he is on the search for “the next great, great part” seems to hint that he is moving on from the character.

The new Blade update conflicts with an earlier report, as the MCU’s Blade movie received a positive update recently. That came from Wesley Snipes Blade franchise writer David Goyer, who claimed that he offered to help Marvel with the film but was turned down because the studio claimed it had cracked a way into the movie and Blade was in a good place. Ali’s new comments make it seem that whatever progress Marvel has made with Blade has either stalled or not been communicated to the actor.

Our Take On Mahershala Ali’s Blade Comments

I’m not feeling hopeful about the Blade movie’s chances after Mahershala Ali’s new MCU comments. It just seems like no real progress has been made on the project since the film was delayed. Adding to this, projects with the multiverse in mind seem to be the focal point of the final stretch of releases in the Multiverse Saga. As such, there is little room for Blade to happen right now. At 51 and with plenty of roles to choose from, I feel like Ali’s comments tease that he is ready to leave Blade behind despite his love for the character.

Source: Variety & The Hollywood Reporter/Twitter