Marvel Removes Blade From Release Schedule

Marvel Studios unveiled a massive shift in its cinematic universe lineup this week. Blade, the much-anticipated vampire reboot, has been removed from its 2025 release calendar.

A Rocky Start for Blade

Marvel first announced Blade’s revival back in July 2019, with Mahershala Ali set to headline. However, the production has faced multiple derailments. Directors Bassam Tariq and Yann Demange both signed on and later stepped away. The ongoing challenges, amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic and Hollywood strikes of 2023, seemed to curse Blade’s journey. Despite all obstacles, the film had a release date. November 7, 2025 appeared to be locked in. Yet, Marvel has now scratched that date from the calendar. Blade fans, it’s time to wait a little longer.

Predator: A New Challenger Enters

Stepping into Blade’s release void is Predator: Badlands on November 7, 2025. Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for Prey, this will be the latest addition to the Predator saga. Interestingly, Disney owns 20th Century Studios, its distributor. A new face, Elle Fanning, will lead the charge in this thrilling franchise entry. Predator fans, brace yourselves for this wild adventure.

What’s Next for Blade?

As of now, Blade stands without a director after Demange exited in June 2024. Marvel has enlisted Eric Pearson to helm the scriptwriting duties. Pearson’s Marvel credits include Thor: Ragnarok and Black Widow. Before him, Michael Starrbury, Nic Pizzolatto, and Michael Green contributed their talents. Although Mia Goth was cast alongside Ali, the project’s future remains uncertain. Ali hasn’t hesitated to voice his frustrations about the ongoing delays. Posting on X, he said, "Blade, lordylordylordy," ending with a light-hearted jab at the struggles.

For now, Blade floats in development limbo. But the Daywalker will eventually rise. The elusive vampire hunter’s return is just not on a set calendar yet. Stay tuned, as Marvel is bound to eventually unveil a fresh release date.