Netflix's Skyscraper Live: Alex Honnold's daring ascent of a 1,667ft tower without ropes or safety gear
Alex Honnold's attempt to scale one of the tallest skyscrapers on Earth without ropes or safety gear is underway, after a 24-hour delay. The American rock climber was set to begin the hair-raising stunt on Saturday evening, but due to wet weather conditions in Taipei, the special was postponed until today.
Honnold, a 40-year-old professional rock climber, is attempting to conquer Taipei 101, a 1,667-foot, 101-story tower that dominates the skyline of Taiwan's capital. Built in 2004, the tower features mostly glass curtain walls and balconies near the top that taper to a pointed peak. It was once the world's tallest building until the construction of Dubai's Burj Khalifa in 2010.
Honnold is known for his record-breaking ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park in 2017, which was captured in the Oscar-winning documentary, Free Solo. He believes that reaching the top of Taipei 101 unaided would make it 'the biggest urban free solo ever'.
The weather is being closely monitored, as the feat had to be delayed by 24 hours last night. Experts are also monitoring for earthquakes, as Taipei is seismically active and has felt at least three tremors of a magnitude of 4.0, with a dozen in January so far.
Honnold's attempt has not been without criticism from fans, who have voiced concerns over his safety. However, he has explained that if he falls during the climb, he would likely survive due to the building's geometry and the presence of balconies every few floors.
The climb will begin at 9am local time in Taipei, which is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Time. The event will be live-streamed on Netflix, with viewers divided as they voice their safety concerns.
Despite the controversy, Honnold remains focused on his goal, and the world awaits his daring ascent.
