- Marvel concept artist Justin Kim unveils Blade-Moon Knight hybrid design for What If…? Season 3.
- This is the most detailed visual of Mahershala Ali’s Blade yet.
- Blade’s next confirmed appearance is in the animated series Marvel Zombies on October 3.
After years of anticipation, Marvel fans finally have a detailed visual of Mahershala Ali’s Blade. This is though not through a live-action debut.
Though the character was only briefly glimpsed in the series finale montage, Kim’s concept art offers fans the clearest view yet. It shows what Ali could look like in the MCU.
Mahershala Ali’s Blade Finally Emerges—In Animation, Not Live Action
Mahershala Ali was announced as the new Blade at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019, creating massive buzz. Yet, nearly six years later, fans have only heard his voice in the MCU—during a post-credit scene in Eternals. His live-action debut has faced repeated delays, creative shakeups, and cast changes, leaving the project’s future uncertain.
While fans wait, Marvel has teased alternative ways to introduce Blade. One such tease appears in What If…? Season 3. Here an alternate Blade appears as Moon Knight. This brief appearance, shown in a final montage, sparked curiosity. It was further fueled by Justin Kim’s concept art now shared on Instagram.
The artwork provides a rich, stylized version of Blade. It merges the mystique of Moon Knight with the edge of a vampire hunter. Kim explains he wanted the design to feel like Blade could unsheathe weapons from his very form. The design highlights his deadly precision. The darker, tactical costume emphasizes stealth and aggression—traits true to both characters.
Looking ahead, fans can expect to see this version of Blade again in the upcoming animated series Marvel Zombies, set for release on October 3. While it’s unclear how prominent his role will be, the inclusion of Mahershala Ali’s likeness gives hope. This suggests that Marvel hasn’t abandoned its plans for the Daywalker just yet.
Though it’s not the cinematic reveal fans hoped for, the Blade/Moon Knight concept art proves Mahershala Ali still has massive potential in the role. Fans are still watching closely.
“My goal was to utilize the wrappings of Moon Knight to create sharp shapes and make it seem like he could pull a blade from anywhere on his body.” – Justin Kim
