MCU Blade movie reboot delayed indefinitely after being removed from 2025 release calendar

Marvel Studios’ long-anticipated Blade reboot has been delayed yet again, and it will no longer be hitting theatres on its previously scheduled date of November 7, 2025.

Instead, Disney will release Predator: Badlands, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for the Predator prequel Prey, which was released on Hulu in 2022.

This shift reflects Disney’s renewed focus on theatrical releases, as they aim to maximize box office potential following the departure of former CEO Bob Chapek.

Blade, starring Oscar-winner Mahershala Ali, has faced a turbulent production journey since its announcement at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019.

Originally slated for a 2022 start under director Bassam Tariq, the project was hit with several setbacks, including Tariq’s departure and later Yann Demange’s exit from the director’s chair.

Mia Goth, who is set to play the villain Lilith, commented on the delays, emphasizing Marvel’s dedication to creating a quality film, stating, “They really care… They want to make a great movie”.

This reboot of the Blade franchise has been hotly anticipated, especially given its roots in superhero history.

The original Blade trilogy, starring Wesley Snipes, broke new ground as one of the first R-rated superhero films, starting with 1998’s Blade under New Line Cinema.

The trilogy, which also includes Blade II (2002) and Blade: Trinity (2004), was a box office success, collectively grossing $418.1 million worldwide.

In a nostalgic return to the character, Wesley Snipes recently made a cameo as Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine, which became the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time, earning $1.3 billion globally.

Upcoming releases for the studio include Captain America: Brave New World in February 2025, Thunderbolts in May, and Fantastic Four in July.

While Blade has been delayed, fans can still look forward to a packed schedule from Marvel, with three untitled films scheduled for February 18, May 5, and November 10 in 2028.