A Spike TV representative told SCI FI Channel’s SCI FI Wire that the network is canceling its television series based on the Blade series of Marvel comics and feature films. Despite getting off to a strong start as Spike’s highest-rated premiere ever, the show has pulled disappointing numbers for the network and will not be renewed for a second season.
Blade: The Series stars rapper-turned-actor Kirk “Sticky Fingaz” Jones as Marvel’s immortal human-vampire half blood who uses his superhuman powers and skills to battle the demonic creatures of the night and prevent their domination of mankind. The role was originated on the big screen by Wesley Snipes, who appeared in all three features. The third installment, Blade Trinity, was written and directed by David S. Goyer, who also wrote Warner Bros.’ Batman Begins and served as exec producer on the Blade series with former Marvel Ent. CEO Ari Arad.
Co-star Jill Wagner reportedly first told her friends about the demise of the Blade series on her Myspace page. Word quickly spread around the Internet, prompting Spike execs to speak out and confirm the news.
Created by Marv Wolfman and Gene Colan, the Blade character first appeared in a 1973 issue of Marvel’s Tomb of Dracula. As the TV show takes its bow, the franchise is being renewed in its original medium. CSI: Miami scribe Marc Guggenheim and illustrator Howard Chaykin have teamed for the first issue of a new Blade comic-book series. Now available in stores, the premiere issue features Spider-Man and Dracula.
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