Blade Film Starring Mahershala Ali Canceled

The highly-anticipated Blade movie appears to have met its final curtain call. The Marvel Cinematic Universe project, which endured numerous obstacles during development, now seems permanently shelved - marking what might be the most disappointing cancellation in MCU history, especially since it means we'll likely never see Mahershala Ali's portrayal of the legendary Daywalker.

Musician Flying Lotus recently revealed on X/Twitter that he was originally tapped to compose music for the film before its collapse. "I guess we're too far past the point of revival now," shared the artist, who recently directed Shudder's sci-fi horror film ASH. "Yeah, I was contracted to score the new BLADE movie before everything fell apart. Maybe it'll resurface someday, but I'm doubtful. It would've been incredible though."

Adding to the confirmation, renowned costume designer Ruth E. Carter disclosed during an interview on The John Campea Show that she had been preparing 1920s-era designs for the vampire hunter's wardrobe before production dissolved. The period setting would have offered stunning visual potential for both costumes and production design.

Completing this trifecta of bad news, actor Delroy Lindo - who was set to co-star alongside Ali - independently confirmed the project's demise days before Carter's revelations. "Marvel initially showed genuine interest in my creative input," Lindo told Entertainment Weekly. "Our discussions with the producers, writer, and original director felt truly collaborative. The concept excited me, particularly regarding my character's development. Then unexpectedly, everything unraveled."

First announced at 2019's San Diego Comic-Con, Blade was originally slated for a November 2023 release before enduring multiple directorial changes, with both Yann Demange and Bassam Tariq departing the troubled production.

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Despite being pulled from Marvel's release calendar just six months ago in October 2024, the studio has yet to announce a new premiere date. However, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige maintained hope during a November 2024 interview with Omelete, stating: "We remain fully committed to Blade. We adore the character and Mahershala's unique interpretation. Whenever we reassess a project or adjust our schedule, we keep fans informed. Rest assured, the Daywalker will join the MCU when the time is right."