Introduction
Netflix has pushed back the highly anticipated live broadcast of professional climber Alex Honnold’s ropeless ascent of Taipei 101, moving the event from Friday night to Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. The change comes after Taiwanese meteorologists issued a rain forecast for the next 24 hours, prompting the streaming service to prioritize climber safety. Fans who had been looking forward to watching the 1,667-foot skyscraper climb will now have to wait an extra day, but the platform has promised a smooth, 10-second-delayed feed.
At a Glance
- Netflix reschedules Alex Honnold’s Taipei 101 climb to Saturday at 8 p.m. ET.
- Weather forecast calls for rain, prompting safety concerns.
- The broadcast will air with a 10-second delay as part of “Skyscraper Live.”
Why it matters: Fans of extreme sports and live streaming will miss Friday’s scheduled event, but safety remains the priority for a ropeless 1,667-foot climb.
Introduction
Netflix has pushed back the highly anticipated live broadcast of professional climber Alex Honnold’s ropeless ascent of Taipei 101, moving the event from Friday night to Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. The change comes after Taiwanese meteorologists issued a rain forecast for the next 24 hours, prompting the streaming service to prioritize climber safety. Fans who had been looking forward to watching the 1,667-foot skyscraper climb will now have to wait an extra day, but the platform has promised a smooth, 10-second-delayed feed.
What Happened
Netflix posted the change on X, the platform’s own social-media channel, stating, “Safety remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding.” The rescheduling was announced Friday night, with the new time set for Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. The original plan had the climb airing Friday night, but the sudden weather report forced the platform to act quickly.
Honnold’s Challenge
Alex Honnold, best known for his 2013 ropeless ascent of Yosemite’s El Capitan and the documentary Free Solo, is no stranger to pushing human limits. In a recent interview, he said, “I don’t think it’ll be that extreme. We’ll see. I think it’s the perfect sweet spot where it’s hard enough to be engaging for me and obviously an interesting climb.” Honnold’s decision to tackle Taipei 101 without ropes or protective equipment is a testament to his confidence and experience in high-risk climbing.
Background on Taipei 101
Taipei 101, standing at 1,667 feet, was once the world’s tallest skyscraper when it opened in 2004. The building’s design incorporates a 90-meter-high wind-swinging tower that helps it withstand typhoons and earthquakes. While many climbers have scaled the structure, none have done so ropeless until Honnold’s upcoming attempt.
Weather and Safety
Taiwan public meteorologists have issued a rain forecast for the next 24 hours, a development that prompted Netflix to delay the broadcast. The platform’s spokesperson emphasized safety, noting that the climber’s well-known risk tolerance does not negate the potential hazards posed by wet conditions on a glass façade. The 10-second delay in the broadcast is a standard precaution for live sports, allowing for any necessary safety checks before the feed reaches viewers.
History of Taipei 101 Climbing
The building has a brief history of rope-less climbs. In 2004, French climber Alain Robert, known as the “French Spider,” scaled Taipei 101 during its grand opening celebration. Robert’s climb took nearly four hours and was completed with minimal gear, but it was not a ropeless, free-solo effort. Honnold’s planned ascent will be the first of its kind, adding a new chapter to the building’s climbing lore.
Key Milestones
| Year | Climber | Duration | Gear |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Alain Robert | ~4 h | Minimal |
| 2025 | Alex Honnold | TBD | None (ropeless) |
The Broadcast
The “Skyscraper Live” broadcast will feature real-time footage of Honnold’s climb, with a 10-second delay to ensure safety compliance. Viewers can expect a mix of aerial shots, close-up action, and commentary from climbing experts. Netflix’s partnership with the climber highlights the platform’s growing interest in extreme sports content, following previous successful live events such as The Last Dance and Game of Thrones finales.
What to Expect
- Timing: Saturday at 8 p.m. ET
- Delay: 10 seconds
- Content: Live footage, expert commentary, behind-the-scenes interviews
- Safety Measures: Real-time monitoring, emergency protocols in place
Key Takeaways
- Rescheduled Live Event: Netflix moved Alex Honnold’s Taipei 101 climb from Friday to Saturday due to rain.
- Safety First: The change reflects the platform’s commitment to climber safety amid unpredictable weather.
- Historical Significance: Honnold’s ropeless ascent will be the first of its kind on the 1,667-foot tower, following Alain Robert’s 2004 climb.
- Broadcast Details: The event will air with a 10-second delay, offering viewers a safe, real-time experience.
