In what promises to be one of the most breathtaking and perilous live broadcasts ever staged, legendary free solo climber Alex Honnold is preparing to attempt a historic ascent of Taipei 101 entirely without ropes or safety equipment. The event, titled Skyscraper Live, will be streamed globally on Netflix, commencing at 8 p.m. Eastern Time tonight, Friday 23 January 2026.
A Monumental Urban Challenge
Honnold, now 40 years old and celebrated for his unparalleled nerve and skill, will confront the 1,667-foot, 101-storey skyscraper that dominates the Taipei skyline. This represents a significant departure from his previous natural rock face climbs, venturing into the realm of urban architecture for a live audience. The tower, constructed in 2004, is renowned for its extensive glass curtain walls and distinctive tapering design, culminating in a pointed peak. It held the title of the world's tallest building until the completion of Dubai's Burj Khalifa in 2010.
Pushing the Boundaries of Free Soloing
The climber has openly acknowledged that Taipei 101 was previously scaled by French urban climber Alain Robert, but crucially, that ascent utilised ropes. Honnold firmly believes that successfully reaching the summit unaided would cement this endeavour as "the biggest urban free solo ever" attempted. This live event seeks to capture that raw, unfiltered moment of human endeavour against immense odds.
From El Capitan to Taipei's Skyline
Alex Honnold rocketed to global fame following his record-breaking, rope-free ascent of the iconic El Capitan in Yosemite National Park in 2017. That extraordinary feat was immortalised in the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo, which captivated audiences with its intimate portrayal of focus, preparation, and sheer audacity. Tonight's broadcast on Netflix aims to deliver that same visceral intensity in real-time, as Honnold transfers his legendary skills from the natural granite of Yosemite to the manufactured glass and steel of one of Asia's most famous towers.
Live Updates and Global Spectacle
Viewers around the world are invited to follow along with live updates as the event unfolds. The broadcast promises not just to document a climb, but to showcase a pivotal moment in extreme sports history. Will Honnold add another unprecedented achievement to his legacy, or will the formidable Taipei 101 prove an insurmountable urban giant? Tune in to Netflix tonight to witness this daring chapter in the story of free solo climbing.
