Bassam Tariq will no longer direct Marvel Studios’ much-awaited Blade. The Mahershala Ali-fronted MCU film, which was finally gearing up to begin filming in November, currently has a release date of November 3rd, 2023. It’s unclear whether Tariq’s exit will impact the production schedule for the vampire actioner.

“Due to continued shifts in our production schedule, Bassam is no longer moving forward as director of Blade but will remain an executive producer on the film,” Marvel said in a statement. “We appreciate Bassam’s talent and all the work he’s done getting Blade to where it is.”

In turn, Bassam Tariq thanked Marvel in his statement: “It’s been an honour working with the wonderful folks at Marvel. We were able to put together a killer cast and crew. Eager to see where the next director takes the film.” It’s unclear what project the filmmaker may be boarding instead.

Blade also stars Delroy Lindo and Aaron Pierre and is currently being written by Moon Knight and The Witcher scribe Beau DeMayo. Sources report that Marvel has already begun looking for new blood to helm the vampire hunter’s solo debut.

As for the MCU’s other upcoming projects, horror fans can look forward to Marvel Studios’ first Halloween special, Werewolf by Night, releasing October 7th on Disney+.

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