A lot of people find change difficult, so not everyone was thrilled when it was announced that actor Mahershala Ali was replacing Wesley Snipes in the “Blade” film reboot. The announcement was made on July 21 at Comic-Con in San Diego.
Snipes played the character in the Marvel film from 1998 to 2004 in “Blade,” “Blade II” and “Blade: Trinity.” But based on some of the social media reactions, many thought he’d be playing the character for all future releases.
So to quell some of the negative chatter, Snipes told everyone that he fully supports Ali in the role and has no hard feelings. Although he admitted to being caught off guard by the news.
“To all the DAYWALKERS losing their minds right now, chillaaxx,” said Snipes in a statement to ComicBook.com. “Although the news comes as a surprise, it’s ALL GOOD. Such is the business of entertainment. Much peace to the MCU crew – always a fan.”
Snipes then gave a shoutout to comic book writer and Marvel legend Stan Lee, who died in November 2018, and had some very kind words for Ali.
“Honor and respect to the grandmaster Stan,” he stated. “Congratulations and Salaam to Mahershala Ali, a beautiful and talented artist whose expressions I look forward to experiencing for many years to come. Inshallah, we will someday work together.”
“Most importantly to my loyal fans, the incredible outpouring of love is overwhelming,” Snipes continued. “I am grateful for the never-ending support. So, ‘nah fret nah worry, it’s not de end of de story.’ Welcome to the Daywalker Klique.”
Based on the most recent comments on Snipes’ Instagram page, it appears his words have soften a few hearts of the people who were mad that Ali got the part.
“Let’s give the new blade a chance!!” someone wrote.
“Love Wesley in the role, however, I like the actor they chose,” another person commented. “I will see it. Willing to give him a chance. I think they found a good replacement. Time will tell. Wesley can’t play the role forever.”
Ali also seemed to respond to the talk, and on Tuesday he posted an Instagram photo of Snipes in the Blade costume.
