Netflix’s highly anticipated live broadcast of professional rock climber Alex Honnold’s free solo ascent of Taipei 101 was postponed by 24 hours due to inclement weather, with organizers emphasizing safety as the top priority. The event, dubbed ‘Skyscraper Live,’ has been rescheduled for Saturday evening in the U.S., allowing for better conditions in Taiwan.
The delay was announced just 30 minutes before the scheduled start time on Friday, as rain continued to fall in Taipei less than an hour prior to the climb. Organizers, including Netflix representatives, stated that the decision was made to ensure Honnold’s safety during the ropeless ascent of the 1,667-foot skyscraper. A crowd of approximately 100 spectators had gathered to witness the event, with many expressing understanding and support for the postponement. Queenie Chang, a local fan, highlighted the importance of safety, saying she would return the following day.
Alex Honnold, renowned for his free solo climb of El Capitan featured in the Oscar-winning documentary ‘Free Solo,’ was set to scale Taipei 101 without any safety gear in a live broadcast. This event is part of Netflix’s push into high-stakes live programming, blending elements of extreme sports and spectacle. The streamer has built a 10-second delay into the broadcast as a precautionary measure, similar to other live events. However, adverse weather conditions forced a last-minute change, underscoring the unpredictable nature of such endeavors.
The rescheduled climb is now planned for Sunday morning in Taipei, which corresponds to Saturday evening in the United States at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Weather forecasts indicate sunnier and more favorable conditions for the ascent. Netflix reiterated its commitment to safety, with a spokesperson noting that the well-being of Honnold and the success of the event were paramount. Social media reactions to the delay have been largely positive, with viewers praising the cautious approach.
This delay comes amidst Netflix’s broader strategy to capture live audience engagement through unique, one-off events. The ‘Skyscraper Live’ broadcast is positioned to compete with other major sporting events, such as the UFC launch on Paramount+. By leveraging Honnold’s celebrity and the inherent drama of free solo climbing, Netflix aims to attract a global viewership. The technical challenges of streaming such an event live are significant, as seen in past glitches during similar broadcasts.
Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building, now ranks 11th globally but remains an iconic structure in Taiwan’s capital. Honnold’s climb is not only a physical feat but also a cultural moment, drawing attention to the sport of rock climbing and live entertainment. The event has been promoted extensively, with Honnold sharing updates on social media, including concerns about the weather in the days leading up to the climb.
Looking ahead, the success of ‘Skyscraper Live’ could influence future live broadcasts on streaming platforms, setting a precedent for how such events are managed. For now, all eyes are on the rescheduled climb, with hopes for clear skies and a safe ascent. Netflix’s handling of the delay reflects a mature approach to risk management in live sports broadcasting.
