In a breathtaking display of human endurance and nerve, world-renowned climber Alex Honnold is set to undertake what he describes as the 'biggest urban free solo ever'. The daring feat involves scaling the iconic 1,667-foot-tall Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan without any ropes or safety equipment.
Historic Live Broadcast on Netflix
The monumental climb, scheduled for the early hours of Saturday, 24 January 2026, at 1am GMT, will be broadcast live to a global audience. Netflix will stream the event under the title 'Skyscraper Live', featuring a comprehensive two-hour live feed. The broadcast will include an on-air panel of experts providing real-time insight and analysis throughout Honnold's ascent.
Endurance Over Technical Skill
Honnold, who gained worldwide fame through the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo, has indicated that this urban climb will primarily test his physical stamina rather than his technical climbing prowess. Interestingly, he has suggested the attempt might be potentially 'safer' than some traditional rock climbs, citing the presence of balconies on every few floors of the skyscraper as possible rest points.
Confidence from a Fellow Pioneer
French climber Alain Robert, who successfully scaled Taipei 101 using ropes back in 2004, has publicly expressed his confidence in Honnold's ability to complete the climb. Robert's endorsement adds a layer of peer validation to this unprecedented urban free solo attempt.
What to Expect During the Ascent
The anticipated climb duration is estimated to be between two and four hours, during which Honnold will navigate the sheer glass and steel facade of one of the world's tallest buildings. This event marks a significant moment in both extreme sports broadcasting and the evolution of live entertainment, blending high-stakes athleticism with global streaming technology.
Viewers tuning into 'Skyscraper Live' on Netflix will witness a unique fusion of sport and spectacle, as Honnold pushes the boundaries of what is considered possible in urban climbing without any safety net.
