Netflix Delays Honnold’s ‘Skyscraper Live’ Climb Due to Rain
Renowned rock climber Alex Honnold’s anticipated live climb of Taipei 101 has been postponed due to inclement weather. The event, titled Skyscraper Live, was scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. local time in Taipei on Saturday, October 21. This live broadcast on Netflix was part of the platform’s venture into live sports programming.
Delay Announcement
As rain fell steadily over Taipei, Netflix made the decision to delay Honnold’s climb by one day. The announcement came approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. According to Netflix, the original decision to postpone rested entirely with Honnold, as his safety was paramount.
- New Climb Date: Sunday, October 22
- Original Climb Date: Saturday, October 21
- Local Time: 9 a.m.
- Eastern Time: 8 p.m. on Friday
Safety First
The CEO of Plimsoll Productions, Grant Mansfield, emphasized the challenge presented by wet conditions. “That building is very climbable when it’s dry, but when it’s wet, it just becomes so slippery,” he stated. Netflix also confirmed the unusual measure of a ten-second delay in their live stream to ensure viewer safety, particularly for younger audiences.
Climbing Challenges
Honnold’s ascent of Taipei 101, measuring 1,667 feet, is a unique challenge. While he finds the geometric structure less complex than iconic climbs like Yosemite’s El Capitan, the height presents its own set of difficulties. Honnold highlighted that building climbs can be more taxing physically, often leading to fatigue that is harder to predict.
Community Excitement
Prior to the postponement, excitement in Taipei had been building. Local media promoted the event, and the iconic Taipei 101 was illuminated with messages of support for Honnold. However, the rainy weather resulted in a lack of crowds at the base of the tower on the day of the original climb.
As Honnold prepares for his rescheduled attempt on October 22, both fans and organizers are hopeful for improved weather conditions. The climb not only showcases Honnold’s skills but also marks a significant moment in the realm of live sporting events presented by Netflix.
