Marvel’s Blade Reboot and the Possibility of a Snipes Comeback

Since Blade was announced as an upcoming MCU project back in 2019, fans have eagerly awaited the return of this iconic character. Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali was cast in the title role, yet the journey to production has been fraught with complications, from frequent changes in directors and writers to rumors of Ali potentially stepping away from the project. However, the delays may now present Marvel with a unique opportunity: reintroducing Wesley Snipes, who recently made a surprise appearance as Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine, bringing fans renewed excitement for his portrayal. This possibility could allow Snipes and Ali to share the screen, each playing unique versions of the character in a multiverse-driven storyline.

Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) | Blade Cameo Scenes | Wesley Snipes Returns

Blade’s Delay Keeps the Door Open for Snipes in the MCU

When Marvel announced Blade for the MCU, it had already been 15 years since Snipes last portrayed the character in Blade: Trinity (2004). Audiences were open to seeing Ali take on the role, bringing his gravitas to a beloved character in a fresh interpretation. However, five years since that announcement, Blade has yet to begin filming. During this time, Snipes returned to his iconic role in Deadpool & Wolverine, thrilling audiences and proving he still embodies the character’s essence. With this cameo reviving interest in Snipes’ Blade, Marvel could consider bringing him into the Blade reboot as a “variant” of Eric Brooks, aligning perfectly with the MCU’s current Multiverse Saga.

Wesley Snipes and Mahershala Ali: A Dual Blade Experience

The inclusion of Wesley Snipes as a Blade variant could be an incredible storytelling device, one that embraces the MCU’s exploration of the multiverse. Snipes’ appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine even references his legacy as the character, with a line poking fun at Ali’s Blade project delays: “There is only one Blade. There is only ever gonna be one Blade.” This playful nod hints that, despite Snipes’ legendary status, the MCU could accommodate both actors as different versions of Blade. By bringing Snipes and Ali together, Marvel can introduce audiences to two interpretations of the character, with their unique dynamics and styles, which could culminate in a “passing of the torch” from Snipes to Ali for the future of Blade in the MCU.

Justifying Blade’s Role in the Multiverse Saga

The Multiverse Saga has been a central theme for the MCU since Avengers: Endgame, with standout films like Spider-Man: No Way Home and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness showing the potential of cross-universe storylines. Yet, there remains room for the MCU to further embrace the multiverse in upcoming projects. Blade, originally seen as a standalone reboot, might now seamlessly integrate into the Multiverse Saga by having Snipes and Ali’s versions of Blade coexist. This strategy not only deepens the multiverse storyline but also primes the MCU for future projects like Avengers: Secret Wars, where the two characters could potentially return to play pivotal roles.

The Multiverse Saga has had its ups and downs, with some of Marvel’s lowest-performing films falling within this phase. However, with the success of Deadpool & Wolverine and its use of multiverse elements, Marvel has clear evidence that fans want more complex, interconnected narratives. Including Snipes in Blade could serve as a compelling way to reinvigorate the multiverse storyline and tap into the rich potential of cross-character interaction.

Blade in Deadpool & Wolverine — All Powers & Fights Scenes — Wesley Snipes

Embracing Snipes’ Legacy and Blending It with the MCU’s Future

Wesley Snipes’ portrayal of Blade was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the superhero genre that eventually led to Marvel’s cinematic dominance. His work in the Blade trilogy paved the way for X-Men, Spider-Man, and, ultimately, the Marvel Cinematic Universe itself. With Blade proving difficult to produce, Marvel now has the opportunity to both honor Snipes’ contributions and give fans a highly anticipated multiverse storyline. By teaming him with Ali, the MCU can celebrate both versions of Blade and offer a unique vampire-hunting experience that respects Snipes’ legacy while building a future for Ali’s portrayal.

Incorporating Snipes in a substantial role alongside Ali may be just what Marvel needs to turn the Blade delays into a unique storytelling opportunity, satisfying fans of both Snipes’ iconic portrayal and the new generation awaiting Ali’s interpretation. This approach would enrich the Multiverse Saga, highlighting the MCU’s dedication to honoring past heroes while boldly introducing new ones.

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