Disney Removes Blade Movie From 2025 Schedule

Disney has officially removed the much-anticipated Marvel movie "Blade" from its 2025 release schedule, a decision that has raised eyebrows among fans and industry insiders alike. The film, which was set to feature Mahershala Ali in the lead role as the iconic vampire slayer, has faced numerous challenges during its development, leading to this latest setback. Instead of "Blade," Disney will now release "Predator: Badlands" from 20th Century Studios on November 7, 2025, the date originally earmarked for the vampire flick.

The troubles surrounding "Blade" are not new. Reports indicate that the film has been plagued by behind-the-scenes drama, including the departure of director Yann Demange earlier this year. This marked the second time a director has exited the project, as Bassam Tariq had previously stepped down due to scheduling conflicts. Such changes have undoubtedly contributed to the film's stalled progress, leaving fans wondering when they might finally see the reboot come to life.

Wesley Snipes, who famously portrayed Blade in the original 1998 film and its sequels, has even chimed in on the situation. He humorously remarked on social media, "Blade, lordylordylordy folks still lookin for the secret sauce, ridin snowmobiles in traffic, kinda rough. Daywalkers make it look easy, don't they?" Despite his playful jab, Snipes has expressed support for Ali taking on the role, emphasizing that there is no animosity regarding the transition.

As it stands, Mahershala Ali remains attached to the project, but the path to production has been anything but smooth. The film's development was initially gaining momentum under Demange's direction, but the writers' strike in May 2023 brought everything to a halt. In June, actress Mia Goth reassured fans that "care" was being taken to ensure a quality film, although the script was set to undergo revisions this summer.

Marvel Studios' president, Kevin Feige, has also weighed in, stating that the "most important thing is not rushing it" after spending two years trying to finalize the film. He hinted at the possibility of an R-rating, which could add a darker edge to the story. Meanwhile, other Marvel projects continue to move forward, with titles like "Captain America: Brave New World" and "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" already scheduled for release in 2025.

As fans await further news on "Blade," it is clear that the film's journey is far from over. The challenges it faces reflect the complexities of modern filmmaking, especially within the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe. While the delays may be disappointing, they also highlight the importance of taking the time to craft a story that resonates with audiences. As the industry evolves, it remains to be seen how "Blade" will ultimately fit into the larger Marvel narrative, but one thing is certain: fans are eager for the vampire slayer's return to the big screen.