Best Look Yet at Mahershala Ali’s Blade

Mahershala Ali’s Blade: An Intriguing Glimpse Through MCU Concept Art

Marvel fans are abuzz with excitement, thanks to Justin Kim’s recent post. The Marvel artist shared an eye-catching concept art piece, offering the best look yet at Mahershala Ali’s portrayal of Blade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The two-time Oscar winner was cast as the iconic vampire slayer back in 2019. However, fans have only heard him, not seen him, in a voice cameo in 2021’s Eternals. Kim’s art provides fans with a detailed view of Ali’s character in an alternate setting.

Blade Meets Moon Knight: A Unique Fusion

Last week, Kim unveiled images of Blade reimagined as Moon Knight on Instagram. “For my final What If…? post, I crafted Blade as Moon Knight,” Kim wrote. He noted that the transformation used Moon Knight’s wrappings to create sharp outlines, envisioning Blade able to draw a sword from anywhere. “Both characters hint at ninja instincts, so I enhanced that archetype,” Kim added.

The artwork gives a unique glimpse into Ali’s character, seamlessly blending two iconic Marvel personas. Blade, as Moon Knight, is shown alongside other imaginative pairings such as Wolverine/Thanos and Doctor Strange/Hulk. These fusions didn’t feature in the main What If…? episodes but appeared in the closing montage.

A Rollercoaster Journey for Blade’s Solo Film

Ali’s attachment to the MCU has been a journey fraught with ups and downs. After his casting, a solo Blade film went into development but faced numerous adjustments. Reports circulated of multiple directors joining, then leaving the project. Marvel Studios pulled the movie from its 2025 release schedule, and rumors suggested the project might be shelved entirely.

On the other hand, Wesley Snipes, the original Blade from New Line Cinema’s trilogy, reprised his role in the MCU movie Deadpool & Wolverine. This move added another layer to Blade’s complex legacy within the Marvel universe. While fans eagerly await more of Ali’s portrayal, Kim’s concept art fuels the imagination, offering a tantalizing view of what might come.

Ultimately, the combination of Blade and Moon Knight reflects a creative leap, sparking excitement for Marvel’s future. As the concept art circulates, it keeps the conversation alive about one of Marvel’s most anticipated revivals.