Blade Trilogy Writer on MCU Reboot Delay: 'Why So Long?'

The writer of the Wesley Snipes Blade trilogy, David S. Goyer, has expressed his readiness to step in and assist with Mahershala Ali’s seemingly stalled Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) reboot of the iconic vampire hunter. Goyer, who penned all three original Blade films and directed "Blade: Trinity," voiced his confusion and eagerness to help during an interview with ScreenRant, stating, "I would... I’ve always loved the character and I love him. I’ve been sitting on the sidelines wondering, ‘What in the world is going on? Why is it taking so long?’ Because I’m a huge Marvel fan myself, and I’ve just been totally puzzled."

The MCU's Blade project, first announced at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019, has faced numerous hurdles, resulting in its indefinite delay. The film, which was expected to release in November 2025, has seen multiple directors come and go, including Yann Demange and Bassam Tariq. In a significant setback, the film was removed from Marvel's release schedule just seven months ago, with no new date announced since.

Amidst this uncertainty, Marvel chief Kevin Feige has reaffirmed the studio's commitment to the project, emphasizing their love for the character and Mahershala Ali's portrayal. "We are committed to Blade. We love the character, we love Mahershala's take on him. And rest assured: whenever we change direction with a project, or are still figuring out how it fits into our schedule, we let the audience know. You're all up to date on what's happening," Feige stated in an interview with Omelete in November 2024. "But I can tell you that the character will indeed make it to the MCU."

Recent comments from those involved in the project paint a grim picture. Rapper and artist Flying Lotus, who was set to compose music for the film, shared on X/Twitter that the project has likely fallen through entirely. "I guess we are so far from it even being a possibility now but. Yeah I was signed on to write music for the new BLADE movie before it fell thru," he said. Costume designer Ruth E. Carter, who was slated to work on the film set in the 1920s, confirmed the production's collapse during an appearance on The John Campea Show. Actor Delroy Lindo, who was also attached to star alongside Ali, lamented the project's derailment in a conversation with Entertainment Weekly, highlighting the initial excitement and inclusivity of the creative process.

In the meantime, the MCU has seen success with "Deadpool & Wolverine," which featured a cameo by Wesley Snipes reprising his role as Blade and grossed $1.3 billion globally. Deadpool actor Ryan Reynolds has advocated for Snipes' Blade to receive a send-off film similar to Hugh Jackman's "Logan," acknowledging the original Blade films' pivotal role in paving the way for superhero cinema. "There is no Fox Marvel Universe or MCU without Blade first creating a market," Reynolds tweeted. "He’s Marvel Daddy. Please retweet for a Logan-like send-off."

Reynolds is also reportedly in the early stages of developing a Deadpool and X-Men ensemble film, where Deadpool would share the spotlight with other X-Men characters, allowing them to be "used in unexpected ways."

The 25 Best Superhero Movies

View 27 Images